This March 21st at Clars Auctions, we will be featuring a curated assortment of artwork from a wide range of periods and locales.

Starting in our own state of California, we have an oil on canvas by plein air painter Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel (American, 1876–1954). Wachtel was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and studied in Chicago before moving to California, where she studied under Scottish American master landscapist William Keith.

Keith’s influence coupled with her new surroundings inspired Wachtel to move away from portraiture and embrace landscape painting, focusing her attention on the mountains, coasts, and foliage of southern California. The painting in this month’s sale is titled Autumn, Trabuco Mountains, California, (estimate: $8,000–$12,000) and depicts the leaves changing color amidst the peak on the border of Orange and Riverside Counties.

Next in our selection of highlights this month is an oil on panel painting by contemporary Canadian artist Ambera Wellmann (Canadian, b. 1982). Wellmann is known for her surreal, collage-like painting techniques that evoke the work of earlier experimental painters like Francis Bacon and Max Ernst, often depicting hybrid bodies and intensely pigmented bacchanal-like scenes. These works regularly bring over $100,000 at auction, and Wellmann is currently represented by major contemporary art gallery Hauser & Wirth. In Wellmann’s early work, her mastery of blending color is apparent, as is her ability to access emotion in unexpected imagery. The piece featured at Clars this month is titled Cloud #7 (estimate: $8,000–$12,000) and dates to 2009. Wellmann presents a mass of gray and white clouds in varied tones moving against a cerulean sky while a hint of peachy, warm sun glows from behind the vapor.

A third feature in our March auction is a large-scale sculpture by German artist Wolfgang Stiller (German, b. 1961) titled Matchsticks (estimate: $5,000–$7,000). Stiller, whose first solo gallery show was in 1986, focuses his practice on objects and installations, often transforming familiar and ordinary items into uncanny and unsettling facsimiles. Among his ouvre are cast wax geodes, a recreation of a scientific laboratory inside a disused train car, and bronze baby heads fashioned into ginseng roots. The human head is a common point of inspiration for Stiller, and this is apparent in Matchsticks, in which three wood matchsticks are topped with hairless, male heads, burnt black and resembling medieval death masks in a kind of postmodern memento mori.

Also among the featured highlights in our March auction are works by Thomas Hill, Maurice Braun, John Frederick Kensett, Tavakol Esmaili and much more.

Clars is pleased to announce its upcoming March 21st Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction, beginning 9:30 AM PDT. This highly anticipated sale will showcase an exceptional selection of rare and beautiful works, offering something for every collector, from fine antiques to contemporary masterpieces.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Furniture & Decorative Arts segment will feature a number of standout pieces. We’ll begin with a rare Northern Baroque carved altar table with tabernacle, dating to the late 17th century, estimated at $8,000–$12,000. Fully carved with biblical reserves, this exquisite table highlights the exceptional craftsmanship of the period.

Also featured is a Chamberlains Worcester armorial porcelain dinner service made for Sir Joseph Scott of Great Barr Hall, estimated at $4,000–$6,000. This early 19th-century set reflects the connection between the patron and the renowned Worcester factory.

Additional highlights include a pair of English polychrome decorated ironstone potpourri urns, valued at $1,800–$2,500, and a George I gilt bronze mounted ebonized bracket clock, by John Gerrard, estimated at $1,800–$2,500. With these and other fine offerings, the auction promises an impressive array of rare and historical pieces.

Fine Art

Clars’ Fine Art section will feature works from diverse periods and regions. A key highlight is Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel’s Autumn, Trabuco Mountains, California, a breathtaking oil on canvas capturing the changing colors of the leaves in the foothills of California’s mountains. The painting is estimated at $8,000–$12,000.

Ambera Wellmann’s surreal and emotionally charged Cloud #7, an oil on panel, offers an exploration of color and form and is estimated at $8,000–$12,000.

Other notable works include Wolfgang Stiller’s Matchsticks, a large-scale sculpture that blends the human form with everyday objects, valued at $5,000–$7,000, and pieces by celebrated artists such as Thomas Hill, Maurice Braun, and John Frederick Kensett.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

The Fine Jewelry & Watches Auction will feature a curated selection of exquisite jewelry pieces, from vintage watches to one-of-a-kind designs. Collectors can expect stunning gold jewelry, statement pieces, and timeless designs suited to a variety of tastes. With items ranging from elegant rings to bold necklaces and bracelets, this sale offers an opportunity for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to acquire pieces that reflect craftsmanship and style. In addition, vintage watch collectors will be delighted by the fine offerings available for bid.

Asian Art

The Asian Art department will showcase a range of rare and desirable items, including a 19th-century Chinese famille verte globular vase, decorated with the Eight Immortals, estimated at $1,000–$1,500.

Another exciting highlight is a Hirado blue and white trumpet form vase — featuring scholars beneath cranes and pine trees — and a watercolor and ink painting by Chiura Obata that captures the iconic landscape of the Carmel coast, estimated at $1,500–$2,500. These treasures reflect the depth and beauty of Asian artistry.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time bidder, Clars Auctions invites you to join us for this exciting event, where beauty, history, and exceptional craftsmanship converge.

The Warehouse Auction: March 22nd

The Warehouse auction offers a dynamic and diverse selection of art, prints, and photographs, with each month featuring a curated mix of paintings, sculptures, and works from across the globe, all with accessible estimates. The Asian Art section will showcase a thoughtfully curated array, including Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and other fine decorative items. In the Jewelry department, we are thrilled to present a range of affordable pieces, from diamonds to silver and gold necklaces. Additionally, The Warehouse boasts an accessibly priced collection that encompasses modern and antique furniture and décor, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, collectible toys, books, and indigenous arts.

In our upcoming March 21st Auction, we will be offering a Chamberlains Worcester armorial porcelain part dinner service made for the Scott Family of Great Barr Hall, early 19th century.

Sir Joseph Scott of Great Barr Hall, Worcester’s parliamentary representative, was granted a baronetcy in 1806. This armorial service, created for him, was appropriately crafted by the Chamberlains Worcester factory, highlighting the connection between the patron and the local craftsmanship.

The Asian Art department is offering remarkable pieces in our upcoming February 21st auction. Featured is a stunning and rare set of Chinese 24-karat gold zodiac figures, with all twelve zodiac animals rendered in high karat gold.

Our Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Auction on February 20th will feature many exceptional works by renowned artists. One of the standout pieces is Vote McGovern (1972), an iconic screenprint by Andy Warhol, estimated $30,000–$50,000.

This politically charged work from 1972 reinterprets a photograph of Richard Nixon, using a vivid color palette that references First Lady Pat Nixon’s dress. The unsettling portrait, created to support George McGovern’s presidential campaign, is a striking example of Warhol’s ability to blend art with political activism.

Our Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Auction on February 20th will feature many exceptional works by renowned artists. One of the standout pieces is The Summit Conference (1986), an oil painting by John Alexander estimated at $30,000–$50,000.

Known for his atmospheric depictions of the Gulf Coast’s bayou landscapes, Alexander infuses his paintings with surrealist elements, such as skeletons in formal wear and masked figures. The work on offer features two baboons facing off against one another, with intense, expressive brushstrokes suggesting a deeper political commentary during the tense era of the Reykjavik Summit talks between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev.

Marc Chagall, revered worldwide for his ability to blend diverse artistic techniques into a distinct, dreamlike style, is particularly known for integrating his Jewish heritage into his art.

Chagall‘s vivid, often surreal compositions are alive with color, and his use of blue — which has been interpreted as symbolizing spirituality and divinity — is particularly notable. Drawing from his personal experiences and Jewish folk traditions, Chagall’s works come alive with a sense of movement and emotion, making them both fantastical and deeply personal.

Among the highlights of the auction are two rare works on paper by Chagall, L’hiver: Procession de Noël (Les quatre saisons) (1974) and Le Dimanche (circa 1939), each carrying an estimate of $300,000–$500,000.

In L’hiver, Chagall presents an enchanting scene filled with angelic figures in the sky, joyful dancers, a fantastical half-human, half-hen figure with her young, and a procession of Christmas revelers. This eclectic composition echoes Chagall’s 1974 mosaic Four Seasons in Chicago’s Chase Tower, where he similarly fused vibrant, animated figures with animals and abstract forms. This work exemplifies Chagall’s later style, where his compositions often feel spontaneous and unrestrained.

Le Dimanche, created around 1939, depicts a tranquil rural scene with a couple strolling past a goat and a chicken. The horned goat, a recurring symbol in Chagall’s work, is often linked to his childhood in the shtetl and is sometimes interpreted as an allegory for the artist himself. The piece also reflects Chagall’s connection to the innocent life he left behind, likely providing him with solace during the uncertain period of World War II. Both of these works, created with gouache, pastel, and mixed media, are rich in color and texture, showcasing Chagall’s masterful use of materials.

Clars Auctions is excited to announce its upcoming Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on Friday, February 21st, 9:30 AM PST. This event will feature a curated selection of pieces from artists and craftsmen, spanning centuries and continents.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Among the highlights of this auction is a 1971 Mercedes-Benz 280SL, showcasing a nearly pristine interior and exterior, previously featured in an international Mercedes periodical.

Additionally, the sale will include a wide range of antique and contemporary furniture, with notable pieces from Michael Taylor and Parish-Hadley-designed interiors. The decorative arts category will offer a Louis Vuitton monogram trunk, sterling silver items, Native American baskets, and an impressive selection of rugs and carpets.

Fine Art

This auction also features pre-war Californian, American, and international art, including paintings, works on paper, and sculptures in various styles. The works come from globally recognized artists, providing an exciting opportunity to acquire pieces that reflect diverse artistic traditions and movements.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

The jewelry section promises an incredible collection of wearable gold pieces, from timeless classics to bold, one-of-a-kind statement designs. This sale will offer a range of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings—each crafted to complement the wearer’s personal style. Whether you’re seeking a versatile accessory or a standout piece to make a statement, there is something for every taste, blending traditional elegance with modern flair.

Asian Art

The Asian Art department is offering remarkable pieces in our upcoming auction, including a stunning set of Chinese 24-karat gold zodiac figures, featuring all twelve zodiac animals rendered in high karat gold.

The ceramic section will include a Chinese famille rose ‘three rams’ vase from the late Qing dynasty, decorated in the Qianlong style with a continuous scene symbolizing the change of fortune and the arrival of Spring.

Another highlight is a Chinese embroidered apricot-ground lady’s informal robe featuring roundels of butterflies, flower sprigs, and cranes — symbols of longevity and birthday celebrations.

The Warehouse Auction: February 22nd

The Warehouse Auction offers a dynamic and diverse selection of art, prints, and photographs, with each month featuring a curated mix of paintings, sculptures, and works from across the globe, all with accessible estimates. The Asian Art section will showcase a thoughtfully curated array, including Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and other fine decorative items. In the Jewelry Department, we are thrilled to present a range of affordable pieces, from diamonds to silver and gold necklaces. Additionally, The Warehouse boasts an accessible priced collection that encompasses modern and antique furniture and décor, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, collectible toys, books, and indigenous arts.

On February 20th in our Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Auction, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of artwork from masters like Marc Chagall, Wayne Thiebaud, John Alexander, Andy Warhol, and much more. The auction will begin at 10 AM PST. Preview February 19th, 1–5 PM PST.

Chagall, revered worldwide for his ability to blend diverse artistic techniques into a distinct, dreamlike style, is particularly known for integrating his Jewish heritage into his art. His vivid, often surreal compositions are alive with color, and his use of blue — which has been interpreted as symbolizing spirituality and divinity — is particularly notable. Drawing from his personal experiences and Jewish folk traditions, Chagall’s works come alive with a sense of movement and emotion, making them both fantastical and deeply personal.

Among the highlights of the auction are two rare works on paper by Chagall, L’hiver: Procession de Noël (Les quatre saisons) (1974) and Le Dimanche (circa 1939), each carrying an estimate of $300,000–$500,000.

In L’hiver, Chagall presents an enchanting scene filled with angelic figures in the sky, joyful dancers, a fantastical half-human, half-hen figure with her young, and a procession of Christmas revelers. This eclectic composition echoes Chagall’s 1974 mosaic Four Seasons in Chicago’s Chase Tower, where he similarly fused vibrant, animated figures with animals and abstract forms. This work exemplifies Chagall’s later style, where his compositions often feel spontaneous and unrestrained.

Le Dimanche, created around 1939, depicts a tranquil rural scene with a couple strolling past a goat and a chicken. The horned goat, a recurring symbol in Chagall’s work, is often linked to his childhood in the shtetl and is sometimes interpreted as an allegory for the artist himself. The piece also reflects Chagall’s connection to the innocent life he left behind, likely providing him with solace during the uncertain period of World War II. Both of these works, created with gouache, pastel, and mixed media, are rich in color and texture, showcasing Chagall’s masterful use of materials.

In addition to Chagall, this auction will feature other exceptional works by renowned modern and contemporary artists. One of the standout pieces is The Summit Conference (1986), an oil painting by John Alexander estimated at $30,000–$50,000. Known for his atmospheric depictions of the Gulf Coast’s bayou landscapes, Alexander infuses his paintings with surrealist elements, such as skeletons in formal wear and masked figures. The work on offer features two baboons facing off against one another, with intense, expressive brushstrokes suggesting a deeper political commentary during the tense era of the Reykjavik Summit talks between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev.

Also featured is Vote McGovern, an iconic screenprint by Andy Warhol, estimated $30,000–$50,000. This politically charged work from 1972 reinterprets a photograph of Richard Nixon, using a vivid color palette that references First Lady Pat Nixon’s dress. The unsettling portrait, created to support George McGovern’s presidential campaign, is a striking example of Warhol’s ability to blend art with political activism.

Additionally, Siddhartha’s Contemplation No. 2, an oil painting by Sri Lankan artist Senaka Senanayake, will also be featured with an estimate of $18,000–$24,000. Known for his lush depictions of the rainforest and his signature translucent layering technique, Senanayake’s works often explore Buddhist themes of impermanence and interconnectedness. This particular piece, inspired by the meditation of Siddhartha Gautama (the historical Buddha), reflects Senanayake’s serene, colorful approach to spirituality.

Other notable works in this month’s auction include pieces by Wayne Thiebaud, Roy Lichtenstein, John McCracken, Robert Arneson, and Hunt Slonem — making it a must-attend event for collectors and art enthusiasts alike.

Clars is excited to announce our upcoming January 17th auction featuring a curated selection of Furniture, Fine Art, Jewelry, and Asian Art, offering collectors and connoisseurs the opportunity to acquire diverse works from renowned artists and craftsmen.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The January auction offers an impressive range of Contemporary and European furniture, alongside sterling silver, ceramics, glass, and fine rugs and carpets. Key highlights from this category include a collection of Mata Ortiz pottery, celebrated for its intricate handwork and connection to ancient Mexican traditions.

Additionally, there are exquisite pieces of German Art Nouveau and Regency period sterling, as well as striking Bagues-style rock crystal sconces that exemplify the elegance of French lighting design. A particularly rare inclusion is a 1665 antiquarian book, Il Nuovo Teatro delle Fabriche, which provides a visual record of 17th-century Rome, capturing the architectural grandeur of the period.

Fine Art

This January’s auction also celebrates the legacy of Cady Wells, an artist whose life and work embody a deep connection to both the American Southwest and the larger avant-garde movement. Born in 1904 in Massachusetts, Wells’ early years were shaped by a strong cultural and artistic education. However, it wasn’t until moving to Arizona in 1932 that he discovered his true artistic calling. Immersing himself in the New Mexico art scene, Wells exhibited alongside contemporaries such as Mark Tobey, Morris Graves, and Jackson Pollock. His work is distinguished by abstract compositions that evoke the curves and colors of the Southwestern landscape, often influenced by his time working with topographic maps during World War II.

While Wells never garnered the same fame as his fellow artists in Taos and Santa Fe, his unique approach to abstraction has been gaining recognition in recent years. The auction will feature a selection of his works that showcase his mastery of color, form, and movement, as well as his innovative interpretations of the desert terrain.

Additionally, we will offer works by Bibi Zogbe, Domenico Gnoli, and Emilio Grau Sala, further enhancing the breadth of our Fine Art offerings.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

This auction also includes a stunning array of fine jewelry, offering some of the most sought-after pieces in the world of luxury. From dazzling diamonds to vibrant gemstones, the collection includes an exceptional selection of rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that are sure to captivate collectors. Among the highlights are a Jacob & Co. diamond chain necklace valued between $60,000–$80,000, and a striking padparadscha diamond and bi-color gold ring, estimated at $7,000–$10,000. Whether you’re seeking a timeless diamond engagement ring or a statement pendant, this auction offers an unparalleled selection of pieces that showcase both beauty and craftsmanship.

The auction also includes an exclusive selection of luxury timepieces from renowned brands such as Piaget and Maurice LaCroix, perfect for watch enthusiasts and collectors of fine horology. With its diverse offerings, this jewelry session promises to be an unforgettable experience for those seeking rare and exquisite treasures.

Asian Art

The Asian Art portion of the auction features important works from China, including a late 18th to early 19th century Chinese brocade blue-ground dragon skirt, which was commissioned by the Qing imperial court for exclusive use by the royal family. This regal textile represents the opulence and craftsmanship of the Qing dynasty.

Also included is a Chinese imitation bronze-glazed hu-form vase from the Republic period, featuring a wide band of confronting dragons and elephant-head handles, a tribute to the Qianlong period style. These items, among other fine examples of Asian art, offer a rare glimpse into the artistic traditions of China’s imperial past.

The Warehouse Auction: January 18th

The Warehouse auction offers a dynamic and diverse selection of art, prints, and photographs, with each month featuring a curated mix of paintings, sculptures, and works from across the globe, all with accessible estimates. The Asian Art section will showcase a thoughtfully curated array, including Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and other fine decorative items. In the Jewelry department, we are thrilled to present a range of affordable pieces, from diamonds to silver and gold necklaces. Additionally, The Warehouse boasts an accessible priced collection that encompasses modern and antique furniture and decor, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, rugs, books, collectibles and indigenous arts. Collections include charming Royal Bayreuth porcelain figural items, as well as a collection of semi-precious stones and minerals, and fossils.