On May 15th in our Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Auction, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of artwork from masters like Raimonds Staprans, Wayne Thiebaud, Joan Brown, Helen Frankenthaler, Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Joan Miro, Pablo Picasso, and much more. The auction will begin at 10 AM PDT. Preview May 14th, 1–5 PM PDT.
Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), The Mid Summer Drop-Leaf Table, 1993, oil on canvas, 48″ x 42″. Estimate: $60,000–$90,000
Wayne Thiebaud (American, 1920–2021), Dark Cake, 1983, woodcut in colors on Tosa Koza paper, 15″ x 17.5″. Estimate: $20,000–$30,000
Dia al-Azzawi (Iraqi, b. 1939), Sleeping Bird, 1981, oil on canvas, 47.25″ x 39.38″ (120 x 100 cm). Estimate: $15,000–$20,000
Wayne Thiebaud (American, 1920–2021), Hill Street, 1987, woodcut in colors, 37″ x 24″. Estimate: $15,000–$20,000
Ed Mell (American, b. 1942), Side Stepper, bronze sculpture with black and verdigris patina, 20″ x 20″. Estimate: $16,000–$18,000
Joan Miró (Spanish, 1893–1983), Le Grand Ordinateur, 1969, etching, aquatint and carborundum on Arches wove paper, 41.38″ x 26.88″. Estimate: $12,000–$18,000 (1 of 3 to be offered)
Roy Lichtenstein (American, 1923–1997), Sunrise, 1965, offset lithograph in colors, 17.25″ x 23.25″. Estimate: $10,000–$15,000
Joan Brown (American, 1938–1990), Mary Julia #32, 1976, acrylic and graphite on paper, 36″ x 24″. Estimate: $8,000–$12,000
Andy Warhol (American, 1928–1987), Flowers (Hand-Colored), 1974, screenprint with hand coloring, 40.5″ x 27″. Estimate: $8,000–$12,000
Joan Brown (American, 1938–1990), Mary Julia #33, 1976, acrylic, charcoal, and graphite on paper, 36″ x 24″. Estimate: $8,000–$12,000
Hunt Slonem (American, b. 1951), Whisper, 2010, oil on canvas, 24″ x 24″. Provenance: Acquired directly from the artist; Private collection, Gary Danko, San Francisco, CA. Estimate: $7,000–$10,000
Helen Frankenthaler (American, 1928–2011), May 26 Backwards, 1961, color lithograph on Crisbrook British handmade buff paper, 17.2″ x 14.2″. Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Louise Nevelson (American, 1899–1988), Full Moon, 1980, black cast polyester resin multiple, 18.5″ x 18.5″ x 2″. Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Hunt Slonem (American, b. 1951), Billie, 2006, oil on canvas, 18″ x 24″. Provenance: Heriard-Cimino Gallery, New Orleans, LA; Private collection, Gary Danko, San Francisco, CA. Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), Chouette aux Tâches, 1951, white earthenware ceramic vase with colored engobe and glaze, 11.75″ x 8.5″ x 5.5″. Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Christopher Brown (American, b. 1951), Fire in the Woods, 1984, oil on canvas, 72″ x 96″. Estimate: $5,000–$7,000
Bidding for Clars’ May auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auctions is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609. Clars Auctions is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auctions has been the chosen auction gallery of a number of institutions and distinguished private collectors across the country, including the Richard Mellon Scaife Estate, the Thomas J. Perkins Estate and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC). In the last 5 years, Clars Auctions has sold well over $500,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!
This auction features a remarkable collection of high-end jewelry, showcasing a diverse range of stunning pieces.
Fine Jewelry & Watches
Highlights
Imperial Elegance at Auction
Asian Art
Stories & News
This season, we will introduce a series of selected embroidery pieces, with the highlight being an 18th-century Qing dynasty imperial yellow satin brocade robe, chuba with gold dragon patterns among colorful clouds.
From the end of the Tang dynasty, China’s relationship with Tibet evolved with continuous political and religious exchanges during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, sending precious court-manufactured silk fabrics to Tibet. Initially reserved for the imperial court, these fabrics later became significant gifts for Tibetan nobility and high-ranking monks. In the 18th century, the Qing court custom-made luxurious silk garments for Buddhist ceremonies, granting many dragon robes, which gradually became traditional attire for Tibetan nobility.
Learn more the elegant imperial yellow satin brocade robe to be offered April 18th!
This Chuba-style robe was custom-made in Tibet from 18th-century Chinese yellow ground brocade, adorned with a five-clawed golden dragon clutching a fiery pearl amidst colorful clouds in pink, blue, green, and ochre, with a terrestrial map motif at the hem. The collar and trim are in pale blue silk depicting original wave-like edges, measuring 55 inches in height and 70 inches in width. This robe not only showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of the Qing court but also serves as an important physical testament to the historical exchanges between China and Tibet.
An Imperial yellow satin brocade robe, chuba. Estimate: $30,000–$50,000
This April 18th we will offer pair of Arne Jacobsen for Fritz Hansen Swan chairs — sculptural, iconic, and effortlessly modern.
Design
Stories & News
Rare Northern Baroque Carved Altar Table
Furniture & Decorative Arts
Stories & News
The Furniture & Decorative Arts segment will feature a number of standout pieces in our March 21st auction.
One such piece is 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.
Learn more the rare Northern Baroque carved altar table to be offered March 21st!
A fine and rare Northern Baroque carved altar table with tabernacle, late 17th century, fully carved with biblical reserves. Provenance: Property from the collection of Santa Sabina Center, San Rafael, and the Sisters of St. Dominic. Estimate: $8,000–$12,000
This April, we will offer an elegant 18th-century Qing dynasty imperial yellow satin brocade robe, chuba with gold dragon patterns.
Asian Art
Stories & News
Eight Immortals Verte Globular Vase
Asian Art
Stories & News
The Asian Art department will showcase a range of rare and desirable items at our March 21st auction, including a 19th-century Chinese famille verte globular vase.
This exquisite vase, decorated with the legendary Eight Immortals, showcases exceptional craftsmanship and vibrant colors. Valued between $1,000–$1,500, it presents an opportunity for collectors to acquire a piece of Chinese cultural history.
Learn more the beautiful Chinese famille verte globular vase to be offered March 21st!
A Chinese famille verte reticulated globular vase. Estimate: $1,000–$1,500
This April 18th we will offer pair of Arne Jacobsen for Fritz Hansen Swan chairs — sculptural, iconic, and effortlessly modern.
Design
Stories & News
Artist Spotlight: Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel
Artist Spotlight
Fine Art
This March 21st at Clars Auctions, we will be featuring a curated assortment of artwork from a wide range of periods and locales.
From 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.
Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel beautifully captures the vibrant transformation of the leaves in the foothills of California.
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.
Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel (American, 1876–1954), Autumn, Trabuco Mountains, California, oil on canvas, 26″ x 30.5″. Estimate: $8,000–$12,000
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.
Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel (American, 1876–1954), Autumn, Trabuco Mountains, California, oil on canvas, 26″ x 30.5″. Estimate: $8,000–$12,000
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.
Ambera Wellmann (Canadian, b. 1982), Cloud #7, oil on panel, 12″ x 16″. Provenance: Purchased from the artist. Estimate: $8,000–$12,000
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.
Wolfgang Stiller (German, b. 1961), Matchsticks, 2017, wood, polyurethane, and paint sculpture, 64.5″ x 25.5″ x 12.75″. Estimate: $5,000–$7,000
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.
Thomas Hill (American, 1829–1908), Untitled (Woodland Scene with Trees and Deer), 1882, oil on canvas, 50″ x 24″. Estimate: $8,000–$12,000
Also among the featured highlights in our March auction are works by Thomas Hill, Maurice Braun, John Frederick Kensett, Tavakol Esmaili and much more.
Maurice Braun (American, 1877–1941), View of San Diego, oil on canvas, 16″ x 19.5″. Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
John Frederick Kensett (American, 1816–1872), Waterfall Near Tivoli, circa 1846, oil on canvas, 10″ x 8″. Estimate: $7,000–$10,000
Tavakol Esmaili (Iranian, 1923–1994), Untitled (Goat), iron sculpture, 12.5″ x 14″ x 9″. Estimate: $5,000–$7,000
Bidding for Clars’ March auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auctions is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609. Clars Auctions is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auctions has been the chosen auction gallery of a number of institutions and distinguished private collectors across the country, including the Richard Mellon Scaife Estate, the Thomas J. Perkins Estate and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC). In the last 5 years, Clars Auctions has sold well over $500,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!
Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel beautifully captures the vibrant transformation of the leaves in the foothills of California.
Artist Spotlight
Fine Art
Artist Spotlight: Andy Warhol
Artist Spotlight
Modern + Contemporary Art
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.
Andy Warhol blends art with political activism. Bid on this captivating work and much more on February 20th.
Andy Warhol (American, 1928–1987), Vote McGovern, 1972, screenprint, 42″ x 42″. Estimate: $30,000–$50,000
Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel beautifully captures the vibrant transformation of the leaves in the foothills of California.
Artist Spotlight
Fine Art
Artist Spotlight: John Alexander
Artist Spotlight
Modern + Contemporary Art
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.
Learn more about the tense John Alexander work to be offered February 20th!
John Alexander (American, b. 1945), The Summit Conference, 1986, oil on canvas, 60″ x 66″. Estimate: $30,000–$50,000
Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel beautifully captures the vibrant transformation of the leaves in the foothills of California.
Artist Spotlight
Fine Art
Artist Spotlight: Marc Chagall
Artist Spotlight
Modern + Contemporary Art
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.
Learn more about our impressive Marc Chagall lots to be offered February 20th!
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.
Marc Chagall (French/Belarusian, 1887–1985), L’Hiver: Procession de Nöel – Les Quatre Saisons (Winter: Christmas Procession – The Four Seasons), 1974, gouache, tempera, pastel, India ink, colored pencils and graphite on paper, 63 cm x 90 cm (24.80″ x 35.43″). The authenticity of this work has been confirmed by the Marc Chagall Committee. Estimate: $300,000–$500,000 (USD)
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.
Marc Chagall (French/Belarusian, 1887–1985), Le dimanche (Sunday), circa 1939, pastel and gouache on paper, 68 cm x 52.7 cm (26.77″ x 20.75″). The authenticity of this work has been confirmed by the Marc Chagall Committee. Estimate: $300,000–$500,000 (USD)
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.
Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel beautifully captures the vibrant transformation of the leaves in the foothills of California.
Artist Spotlight
Fine Art
Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Highlights
Highlights
Modern + Contemporary Art
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.
Marc Chagall (French/Belarusian, 1887–1985), L’Hiver: Procession de Nöel – Les Quatre Saisons (Winter: Christmas Procession – The Four Seasons), 1974, gouache, tempera, pastel, India ink, colored pencils and graphite on paper, 63 cm x 90 cm (24.80″ x 35.43″). The authenticity of this work has been confirmed by the Marc Chagall Committee. Estimate: $300,000–$500,000 (USD)
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.
Marc Chagall (French/Belarusian, 1887–1985), Le dimanche (Sunday), circa 1939, pastel and gouache on paper, 68 cm x 52.7 cm (26.77″ x 20.75″). The authenticity of this work has been confirmed by the Marc Chagall Committee. Estimate: $300,000–$500,000 (USD)
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.
Wayne Thiebaud (American, 1920–2022), Untitled (Meringue and Portrait of Manuel Neri), circa 1990, oil on ceramic, 4.25″ x 5″ x 1.75″. Estimate: $80,000–$120,000
John Alexander (American, b. 1945), The Summit Conference, 1986, oil on canvas, 60″ x 66″. Estimate: $30,000–$50,000
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.
Andy Warhol (American, 1928–1987), Vote McGovern, 1972, screenprint, 42″ x 42″. Estimate: $30,000–$50,000
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.
Senaka Senanayake (Sri Lankan, b. 1951), Siddartha’s Contemplation No. 2, 1967, oil on canvas, 35.75″ x 27.25″. Estimate: $18,000–$24,000
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.
Roy Lichtenstein (American, 1923–1997), Crak!, 1964, offset lithograph in colors, 18.5″ x 27″. Estimate: $15,000–$20,000
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.
John Harvey McCracken (American, 1934–2011), Blue Post and Lintel I, 1970, painted wood maquette, 12.5″ x 4″ x 2″. Estimate: $15,000–$20,000
Robert Arneson (American, 1930–1992), I’m Looking For You, Whitey, 1989, acrylic, oil stick, latex enamel on paper, 72″ x 51.75″. Estimate: $10,000–$20,000
March Avery (American, b. 1932), Acropolis at Cumae, 1962, oil on canvas, 30″ x 40″. Estimate: $7,000–$10,000
Chen Zhanheng (Chinese, b. 1974), Untitled (Still Life with Trumpet, Flute, and Fruit), oil on canvas, 36″ x 40″. Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Peter Max (American, b. 1937), Liberty, bronze, 22.5″ x 6.5″ x 6.5″. Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Gideon Rubin (Israeli, b. 1973), Gas Mask, oil on board, 16″ x 16″. Estimate: $5,000–$7,000
Hunt Slonem (American, b. 1951), Green Bunny, 2019, oil on panel, 10″ x 8″. Estimate: $5,000–$7,000
Bidding for Clars’ February auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auctions is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609. Clars Auctions is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auctions has been the chosen auction gallery of a number of institutions and distinguished private collectors across the country, including the Richard Mellon Scaife Estate, the Thomas J. Perkins Estate and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (NYC). In the last 5 years, Clars Auctions has sold well over $500,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!
