Important Fine Art Highlights

  • Fine Art
  • Highlights

On September 18th, Clars is pleased to present a special selection of outstanding fine art that will appeal to each and every collector in our Important Fine Art Auction.

Niki de Saint Phalle (French, 1930–2002), Serpent Vase, 1986, ceramic and polystyrene vase (painted in colors), 16.75″h. Estimate: $20,000–$25,000
Niki de Saint Phalle (French, 1930–2002), Serpent Vase, 1986, ceramic and polystyrene vase (painted in colors), 16.75″h.
Estimate: $20,000–$25,000

First in our series of highlights is a ceramic and polystyrene sculptural vase by French modernist, Niki de Saint Phalle (1930–2002). Saint Phalle is best known for her large-scale Nana series of sculptures, which depicts voluptuous and colorfully painted women in a variety of poses. Her color-block painting technique is displayed in Serpent Vase (1986), which is formed by a coiled snake around a bowl. The piece is from an edition of seven and is estimated at $20,000–$25,000.


Senaka Senanayake (Sri Lankan, b. 1951), Untitled (Figures), 1967, oil on canvas affixed to board, 18.75″ x 27″. Estimate: $15,000–$25,000
Senaka Senanayake (Sri Lankan, b. 1951), Untitled (Figures), 1967, oil on canvas affixed to board, 18.75″ x 27″.
Estimate: $15,000–$25,000

Also featured in the auction are two oils on canvas by Sri Lankan artist, Senaka Senanayake (b. 1951) — Untitled, estimated at $15,000–$25,000, and The Devotees, estimated at $10,000–$15,000. Both paintings date to the late 1960s and are exemplary of his work during this period, depicting figural groups in an Abstract Expressionist manner with emotive smears of rich color and thick, black linework.


Marc Chagall (Belarusian/French, 1887–1985), Songe de Lamon et de Dryas (from Daphnis and Chloe), 1961, lithograph in colors on Arches paper, 21.13″ x 14.9″. Estimate: $15,000–$20,000
Marc Chagall (Belarusian/French, 1887–1985), Songe de Lamon et de Dryas (from Daphnis and Chloe), 1961, lithograph in colors on Arches paper, 21.13″ x 14.9″.
Estimate: $15,000–$20,000
Marc Chagall (Belarusian/French, 1887–1985), Plate 1, from Four Tales from the Arabian Nights, 1948, lithograph in colors, 17″ x 13″.Estimate: $15,000–$20,000
Marc Chagall (Belarusian/French, 1887–1985), Plate 1, from Four Tales from the Arabian Nights, 1948, lithograph in colors, 17″ x 13″.
Estimate: $15,000–$20,000

The auction will also include two significant works on paper by the iconic modernist Marc Chagall (Belarusian/French, 1887–1985), celebrated for his dreamlike imagery and poetic use of color. Known for bridging Cubism, Symbolism, and Fauvism with a deeply personal visual language, Chagall’s work continues to resonate with collectors worldwide. Featured is Plate 1, from Four Tales from the Arabian Nights (1948), a vivid color lithograph that exemplifies Chagall’s fascination with folklore and fantasy. Signed and annotated “Pl. 1” in pencil, the work is numbered 65/90 and was published by Pantheon Books, New York. It carries an estimate of $15,000–$20,000. Also on offer is Daphnis and Chloe (1961), a lyrical lithograph in colors on Arches paper. Signed in pencil and numbered 26/60, this work (Mourlot 311) stems from Chagall’s celebrated suite inspired by the ancient Greek love story. With its fluid composition and romantic palette, it is similarly estimated at $15,000–$20,000.


Joseph Kleitsch (American, 1882–1931), <em>Diver’s Cove Laguna</em>, oil on board, 18″ x 21.75″.<br><b>Estimate: $15,000–$20,000</b>
Joseph Kleitsch (American, 1882–1931), Diver’s Cove Laguna, oil on board, 18″ x 21.75″.
Estimate: $15,000–$20,000
Albert Beck Wenzell (American, 1864–1917), <em>Untitled (Couple in Venetian Gondola)</em>, oil on canvas, <nobr>78″ x 100″.</nobr><br><b>Estimate: $10,000–$15,000</b>
Albert Beck Wenzell (American, 1864–1917), Untitled (Couple in Venetian Gondola), oil on canvas, 78″ x 100″.
Estimate: $10,000–$15,000
Senaka Senanayake (Sri Lankan, b. 1951), The Devotees, 1968, oil on canvas affixed to board, 26.25″ x 18″. Estimate: $10,000–$15,000
Senaka Senanayake (Sri Lankan, b. 1951), The Devotees, 1968, oil on canvas affixed to board, 26.25″ x 18″.
Estimate: $10,000–$15,000
Bibi Zogbe (Lebanese, 1890–1975), Retamas, 1969, oil on masonite, 22.75″ x 27″. Estimate: $8,000–$12,000
Bibi Zogbé (Lebanese, 1890–1975), Retamas, 1969, oil on masonite, 22.75″ x 27″.
Estimate: $8,000–$12,000
Enrico Donati (Italian/American 1909–2008), Coptic Wall II, 1978, mixed media on canvas, 50″ x 50″. Estimate: $8,000–$12,000 (1 of 4 to be offered)
Enrico Donati (Italian/American 1909–2008), Coptic Wall II, 1978, mixed media on canvas, 50″ x 50″.
Estimate: $8,000–$12,000 (1 of 4 to be offered)

Another highlight in the September Important Fine Art Auction is a large, mixed media piece by Italian-American modernist, Enrico Donati (1909–2008). Donati began his artistic career in the early 1940s after meeting with André Breton and other European Surrealists who were active in New York City during the period. Estimated at $8,000–$12,000 and one of four works to be offered, Donati’s Coptic Wall II (1978) is one such work that epitomizes his use of textured canvases.


Louise Bourgeois (American/French, 1911–2010), <em>My Hand</em>, 2002, lithograph in colors on paper, 11″ x 8.5″. <b>Provenance:</b> The Collection of Riley Johndonnell, Creative Director and Co-Founder of <em>Surface Magazine</em>.<br><b>Estimate: $8,000–$12,000</b>
Louise Bourgeois (American/French, 1911–2010), My Hand, 2002, lithograph in colors on paper, 11″ x 8.5″. Provenance: The Collection of Riley Johndonnell, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Surface Magazine.
Estimate: $8,000–$12,000
Bibi Zogbé (Lebanese, 1890–1975), Printemps, 1974, oil on canvas, 23.5″ x 19.5″. Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Bibi Zogbé (Lebanese, 1890–1975), Printemps, 1974, oil on canvas, 23.5″ x 19.5″.
Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Ira Yeager (American, 1938–2022), Bison Bison Americanus, oil on canvas, 60″ x 60″. Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Ira Yeager (American, 1938–2022), Bison Bison Americanus, oil on canvas, 60″ x 60″.
Estimate: $6,000–$9,000

In addition to the above highlighted works, we are offering paintings by Ira Yeager and Bibi Zogbe, prints by Wayne Thiebaud and Franz Marc, and a wealth of other exceptional pieces.


Gerald Leslie Brockhurst (British, 1890–1978), Adolescence, etching, 14.5″ x 10.5″. Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Gerald Leslie Brockhurst (British, 1890–1978), Adolescence, etching, 14.5″ x 10.5″.
Estimate: $6,000–$9,000
Anna Althea Hills (American, 1882–1930), Untitled (Autumn Landscape with Lake), oil on masonite, 18″ x 24″. Estimate: $5,000–$7,000
Anna Althea Hills (American, 1882–1930), Untitled (Autumn Landscape with Lake), oil on masonite, 18″ x 24″.
Estimate: $5,000–$7,000
Wayne Thiebaud (American, 1920–2021), Tide Figures, 2006, drypoint in colors with hard ground etching on gampi paper chine collé, 39.75″ x 30.5″. Estimate: $5,000–$7,000
Wayne Thiebaud (American, 1920–2021), Tide Figures, 2006, drypoint in colors with hard ground etching on gampi paper chine collé, 39.75″ x 30.5″.
Estimate: $5,000–$7,000
Franz Marc (German, 1880–1916), Schlafende Hirtin, 1912, woodcut on Japan paper, 10″ x 15″. Estimate: $5,000–$7,000
Franz Marc (German, 1880–1916), Schlafende Hirtin, 1912, woodcut on Japan paper, 10″ x 15″.
Estimate: $5,000–$7,000

Read More

Fine Interiors Auction Highlights

The Fine Interiors Auction is anchored by an important estate designed by the renowned interior design firm Parish-Hadley Associates.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

Important Watches & Holiday Jewelry Auction Highlights

This highly anticipated sale features an exceptional array of fine wristwatches and holiday-ready jewelry.

  • Fine Jewelry & Watches
  • Highlights

Georg Jensen Silver Collection of the Lyons

Tom and Gussie Lyon’s shared love of design, art, and architecture began soon after their wedding in the early 1950s.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

October Gallery Auction Highlights

Our auction on October 17th will feature a curated selection of Furniture & Decorative Arts, Fine Art, and Fine Jewelry & Watches.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

Musical Instrument Collection of Hank Risan

Hank Risan’s musical instrument collection included more than 750 examples of fine 19th and 20th century acoustic instruments.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

Memorabilia from The Maltese Falcon

On October 17th, Clars is proud to offer an iconic piece of Hollywood history: a Maltese Falcon prop from the 1941 film noir classic.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

Artist Spotlight: Joan Brown

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

This May at Clars we are excited to feature a selection of modern and contemporary artwork that will undoubtably appeal to each and every collector. For fans of the Bay Area Figurative Movement, we are highlighting two works on paper by celebrated multimedia artist Joan Brown (American, 1938–1990).


Brown was born in San Francisco and continued to work in the area for her entire life, creating paintings, sculptures, and works on paper that celebrated the Bay Area as much as her own inner life. During her prolific career, Brown evolved stylistically from abstract expressionism to folk art inspired figurative painting and became involved in the highly influential Bay Area Figurative Movement. Brown was married for a period to a fellow member of the movement, Manuel Neri, who introduced her to the model Mary Julia Klimenko, Brown’s muse for the series that includes the two pieces at Clars this month. These two acrylic and charcoal compositions are titled Mary Julia #32, estimated at $8,000–$12,000, and Mary Julia #33, estimated at $8,000–$12,000, and each depicts the subject in two strikingly different settings.


Joan Brown (American, 1938–1990), Mary Julia #32, 1976, acrylic and graphite on paper, 36″ x 24″. Estimate: $8,000–$12,000
Joan Brown (American, 1938–1990), Mary Julia #32, 1976, acrylic and graphite on paper, 36″ x 24″.
Estimate: $8,000–$12,000

Mary Julia #32 is shown alone in an austere space, likely a chapel, with two narrow stained-glass windows behind her. Her dark hair is topped with a veil that recalls medieval tastes, and her white gown indicates that it is the day of her wedding. She stares wide-eyed at the viewer, holding a champagne glass. Mary Julia #33 is dressed in a green military uniform with her arms behind her back. Next to her is a headless white sculpture, perhaps depicting herself, and a picture of two blackened figures sitting on an easel. Each work is done in Brown’s instantly recognizable faux-naif style, with her signature splashes of color. The two pair themselves with the use of lavender on the wall and windows.


Joan Brown (American, 1938–1990), <em>Mary Julia #33</em>, 1976, acrylic, charcoal, and graphite on paper, 36" x 24".<br><b>Estimate: $8,000–$12,000</b>
Joan Brown (American, 1938–1990), Mary Julia #33, 1976, acrylic, charcoal, and graphite on paper, 36″ x 24″.
Estimate: $8,000–$12,000

Read More

Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Highlights

This May, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of work from masters like Raimonds Staprans, Wayne Thiebaud, and much more.

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Dia Al-Azzawi

Al-Azzawi studied art in Baghdad, taking inspiration from ancient Middle Eastern mythology as well as Islam and Arabic culture.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Raimonds Staprans

This May 15th, Clars is excited to offer an outstanding oil on canvas painting by artist Raimonds Staprans.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Modern + Contemporary Art Consignments Now Invited

If you have ever thought about selling at auction, NOW is the time. Incredible prices are being achieved on artwork.

  • Consignments
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel

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

This February, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of artwork from masters like Marc Chagall, Andy Warhol, and much more.

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Dia Al-Azzawi

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

An outstanding piece in the May auction is an oil on canvas painting by Iraqi artist Dia Al-Azzawi (b. 1939). Al-Azzawi studied art in Baghdad, taking inspiration from ancient Middle Eastern mythology as well as Islam and Arabic culture, and worked in the city throughout the mid-20th century.


Al-Azzawi eventually moved out of Iraq in the 1970s and began working abroad, using painting as an outlet for feelings of despair he felt seeing the destruction of his homeland during the wars that plagued the country during the later 20th century. Now living between London and Dubai, Al-Azzawi maintains his status as one of the foremost globally successful Arab artists, and an influential icon in his home country.


Dia al-Azzawi (Iraqi, b. 1939), Sleeping Bird, 1981, oil on canvas, 47.25″ x 39.38″ (120 x 100 cm). Sold: $72,050
Dia al-Azzawi (Iraqi, b. 1939), Sleeping Bird, 1981, oil on canvas, 47.25″ x 39.38″ (120 x 100 cm).
Sold: $72,050

The painting in our May Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Auction is titled Sleeping Bird, estimated at $15,000–$20,000. In its abstraction, the hovering head of a beaked bird appears above an assortment of interpretive shapes below, faithful to distinctive Cubist style and vibrant color palette.

Read More

Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Highlights

This May, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of work from masters like Raimonds Staprans, Wayne Thiebaud, and much more.

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Joan Brown

For fans of the Bay Area Figurative Movement, we are highlighting two works on paper by celebrated multimedia artist Joan Brown this May.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Raimonds Staprans

This May 15th, Clars is excited to offer an outstanding oil on canvas painting by artist Raimonds Staprans.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Modern + Contemporary Art Consignments Now Invited

If you have ever thought about selling at auction, NOW is the time. Incredible prices are being achieved on artwork.

  • Consignments
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel

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

This February, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of artwork from masters like Marc Chagall, Andy Warhol, and much more.

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Highlights

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

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
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), <em>Dark Cake</em>, 1983, woodcut in colors on Tosa Koza paper, 15″ x 17.5″.<br><b>Estimate: $20,000–$30,000</b>
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
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), <em>Hill Street</em>, 1987, woodcut in colors, 37″ x 24″.<br><b>Estimate: $15,000–$20,000</b>
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
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)
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
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
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
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), <em>Mary Julia #33</em>, 1976, acrylic, charcoal, and graphite on paper, 36" x 24".<br><b>Estimate: $8,000–$12,000</b>
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
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), <em>May 26 Backwards</em>, 1961, color lithograph on Crisbrook British handmade buff paper, 17.2″ x 14.2″.<br><b>Estimate: $6,000–$9,000</b>
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
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
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 Taches, 1951, white earthenware ceramic vase with colored engobe and glaze, 11.75″ x 8.5″ x 5.5″. 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
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!

Read More

Fine Interiors Auction Highlights

The Fine Interiors Auction is anchored by an important estate designed by the renowned interior design firm Parish-Hadley Associates.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

Important Watches & Holiday Jewelry Auction Highlights

This highly anticipated sale features an exceptional array of fine wristwatches and holiday-ready jewelry.

  • Fine Jewelry & Watches
  • Highlights

Georg Jensen Silver Collection of the Lyons

Tom and Gussie Lyon’s shared love of design, art, and architecture began soon after their wedding in the early 1950s.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

October Gallery Auction Highlights

Our auction on October 17th will feature a curated selection of Furniture & Decorative Arts, Fine Art, and Fine Jewelry & Watches.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

Musical Instrument Collection of Hank Risan

Hank Risan’s musical instrument collection included more than 750 examples of fine 19th and 20th century acoustic instruments.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

Memorabilia from The Maltese Falcon

On October 17th, Clars is proud to offer an iconic piece of Hollywood history: a Maltese Falcon prop from the 1941 film noir classic.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

Artist Spotlight: Raimonds Staprans

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

This May 15th, Clars is excited to offer an outstanding oil on canvas painting by Latvian American artist Raimonds Staprans (b. 1926) in our Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Auction.


Upon moving to the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1950s, Staprans was quickly adopted by the art community in his chosen home and remains one of the foremost representatives of post-war California painting nationwide. Staprans is known for his large swaths of bright color, often playing with natural light and the perception of shape and texture, and his understated treatment of subject.


Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), Blue Boats, 1990, oil on canvas, 44" x 48".Sold: $187,500
Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), Blue Boats, 1990, oil on canvas, 44″ x 48″.
Sold: $187,500

Current trends in the market show that the highly saturated paintings that Staprans perfected in the late 1980s and 1990s are increasingly popular with collectors. Clars has been successful with several of these pieces in the last five years, including a 1987 oil on canvas titled, Still Life with Red Piano Stool, which sold well over its estimate at $147,600 in 2020, and Blue Boats, a 1990 painting that sold for $187,500 in 2022. Still life depictions of food are among the most recognizable of Staprans’ motifs. Staprans’ highest record price was realized in 2023 for a 1995 still life depicting oranges, done in a vibrantly warm palette that is strikingly similar to the piece up for auction at Clars this May.


Raimonds Staprans (American, b. 1926), Still Life with Red Piano Stool
Raimonds Staprans (American, b. 1926), Still Life with Red Piano Stool, 1987, oil on canvas, 64″ x 42″.
Sold: $147,600

The scene takes place in a space unmarked by identifying objects, furnished with a stool-like drop-leaf table. The table’s edges and sides are traced with prismatic colors in a manner that leaves the viewer questioning if the color is painted on the posts and boards, or if the unseen sun is playing tricks on our eyes. The top of the table appears to be doused with direct sunlight, bright white and glowing against the orange background. To the viewer’s right, the sides of the table’s legs are cast in a sunset glow the same tangerine shade as the background. Sitting atop the table is a peeled apple, its sides angled and smoothed with a paring knife. The fruit casts a half-moon shadow that points toward the open leaf of the table and is echoed on each stretcher below.


Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), The Mid Summer Drop-Leaf Table, 1993, oil on canvas, 48″ x 42″.Estimate: $60,000–$90,000
To be offered May 15th: Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), The Mid Summer Drop-Leaf Table, 1993, oil on canvas, 48″ x 42″.
Sold: $189,000

This work, titled The Mid Summer Drop-Leaf Table (estimated at $60,000–$90,000), showcases Staprans’ skill in using color to portray light, perspective, and a specific atmosphere. The tones chosen in this composition evoke the warmth of the summer months, and the slant of the dazzling sunshine on the table and fruit leave us wondering if this is the end of a late-evening garden party, where a table full of fresh fruit has dwindled to a lone apple and the leaves are dropped one by one. This outstanding example of Staprans’ later work is a celebration of color and light, an ode to atmosphere, and will be a significant addition to any collection.


Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), The Black Boat, 1963, oil on canvas, 22″ x 25″.
Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), The Black Boat, 1963, oil on canvas, 22″ x 25″.
Sold: $18,900

Read More

Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Highlights

This May, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of work from masters like Raimonds Staprans, Wayne Thiebaud, and much more.

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Joan Brown

For fans of the Bay Area Figurative Movement, we are highlighting two works on paper by celebrated multimedia artist Joan Brown this May.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Dia Al-Azzawi

Al-Azzawi studied art in Baghdad, taking inspiration from ancient Middle Eastern mythology as well as Islam and Arabic culture.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Modern + Contemporary Art Consignments Now Invited

If you have ever thought about selling at auction, NOW is the time. Incredible prices are being achieved on artwork.

  • Consignments
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel

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

This February, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of artwork from masters like Marc Chagall, Andy Warhol, and much more.

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Property from the Collection of Lila Mae Azad

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

This April we are honored to present the extraordinary art collection of Lila Mae “Peggy” Azad — a woman whose lifelong devotion to the arts lives on through her legacy.


Peggy once wrote: “I am the temporary custodian. In exchange for the privilege of living with and caring for my objects I am leaving them all for a museum or art gallery for the ‘public’ to enjoy after Manouch and I are no longer alive.” Her wish was to ensure that her collection would one day be shared with the world.


John Seery (American, b. 1941), <em>Sagamore Bridge</em>, 1970, acrylic on canvas, 60″ x 50″.<br><b>Estimate: $4,000–$6,000</b>
John Seery (American, b. 1941), Sagamore Bridge, 1970, acrylic on canvas, 60″ x 50″.
Estimate: $4,000–$6,000

This significant collection includes over 90 Chinese and Japanese ivory sculptures and more than 114 diverse works from around the globe — spanning American, Chinese, French, Iranian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Native American, Russian, Thai, and Vietnamese origins. The pieces vary in form and material, including porcelain, cloisonné, glass vases, plates, bowls, bronze and carved alabaster sculptures, a Russian brass samovar, Japanese woodblock prints, and hand-woven Iranian silk tapestry panels threaded with gold and silver.


A Persian .875 silver tray 13″d, 22.6 ozt.Estimate: $600–$900
A Persian .875 silver tray 13″d, 22.6 ozt.
Estimate: $600–$900
Hossein Mahjoubi (Iranian, b. 1930), No. 20, 1991, oil on canvas, 20″ x 20″.Estimate: $4,000–$6,000
Hossein Mahjoubi (Iranian, b. 1930), No. 20, 1991, oil on canvas, 20″ x 20″.
Estimate: $4,000–$6,000
A 14k gold cigarette case with 7 amethysts set in half moon shape, 3.75″ x 2.25″, 103g.<br><b>Estimate: $5,000–$7,000</b>
A 14k gold cigarette case with 7 amethysts set in half moon shape, 3.75″ x 2.25″, 103g.
Estimate: $5,000–$7,000

Notably, the collection features works by renowned Iranian artists Parviz Tanavoli and Sia Armajani, reflecting Peggy’s deep connection to both international and Iranian art and culture.


Paul Jacoulet, various woodblock prints.<br><b>Estimate: $400–$600 (each)</b>
Paul Jacoulet, various woodblock prints.
Estimate: $400–$600 (each)

Born on May 5, 1933, in her family’s home in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Jesse Joseph Schneider and Laura Harriette Ronning Schneider, Peggy — known to many simply as Peggy Azad — lived a life filled with purpose, passion, and artistic appreciation.


A Galle cameo glass vase.Estimate: $700–$1,000
A Galle cameo glass vase.
Estimate: $700–$1,000
A Chinese four-panel porcelain mounted hardwood folding screen.<br><b>Estimate: $3,000–$5,000</b>
A Chinese four-panel porcelain mounted hardwood folding screen.
Estimate: $3,000–$5,000

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Naomi Lindstrom: Worldwide Beads & Tribal Jewelry

We are honored to present the globally sourced bead and tribal jewelry collection from the Naomi Lindstrom estate on October 16th.

  • Asian Art
  • Estate Spotlight

Naomi Lindstrom: Worldwide Beads & Tribal Art

We are honored to present the rare and globally sourced bead and tribal art collection from the estate of Naomi Lindstrom on August 14th.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Fine Curiosities Auction: The Estate of Eddi Van Auken

The sale offers a rare glimpse into the creative spirit of a connoisseur whose eye for the unusual and the beautiful resulted in a truly one-of-a-kind collection.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Highlights

The Story of Eddi Van Auken

For over 30 years Eddi acquired, researched, and catalogued antique walking sticks from around the world.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Abstract & Rooted in Tradition — Seasons Page

The contemporary Asian section of our April 18th auction will feature important work by Chuang Che, a Chinese-American abstract artist.

  • Asian Art
  • Stories & News

Effortless Sophistication in Motion

Our Modern Design section of the April 18th auction will feature a sculptural Alvar Aalto bentwood tea trolley.

  • Design
  • Stories & News

Modern + Contemporary Art Consignments Now Invited

  • Consignments
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Consignments are now invited for our upcoming Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Auction on Thursday, May 15th.

Schedule an appointment today with one of our Fine Art Specialists. The deadline to consign is Friday, April 25th. To schedule your appointment, call (510) 428-0100 x 130 OR email [email protected].

Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), The Mid Summer Drop-Leaf Table, 1993, oil on canvas, 48″ x 42″.Estimate: $60,000–$90,000
To be offered May 15th: Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926), The Mid Summer Drop-Leaf Table, 1993, oil on canvas, 48″ x 42″.
Estimate: $60,000–$90,000

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Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Highlights

This May, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of work from masters like Raimonds Staprans, Wayne Thiebaud, and much more.

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Joan Brown

For fans of the Bay Area Figurative Movement, we are highlighting two works on paper by celebrated multimedia artist Joan Brown this May.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Dia Al-Azzawi

Al-Azzawi studied art in Baghdad, taking inspiration from ancient Middle Eastern mythology as well as Islam and Arabic culture.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Raimonds Staprans

This May 15th, Clars is excited to offer an outstanding oil on canvas painting by artist Raimonds Staprans.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Highlights

This February, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of artwork from masters like Marc Chagall, Andy Warhol, and much more.

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Andy Warhol

In our upcoming February 20th auction, an exciting work by Andy Warhol blends art with political activism.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

March Fine Art Highlights

  • Fine Art
  • Highlights

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.


Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel (American, 1876–1954), Autumn, Trabuco Mountains, California, oil on canvas, 26″ x 30.5″.Estimate: $8,000–$12,000
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
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), <em>Matchsticks</em>, 2017, wood, polyurethane, and paint sculpture, 64.5″ x 25.5″ x 12.75″.<br><b> Estimate: $5,000–$7,000</b>
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
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
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
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
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!

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Fine Interiors Auction Highlights

The Fine Interiors Auction is anchored by an important estate designed by the renowned interior design firm Parish-Hadley Associates.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

Important Watches & Holiday Jewelry Auction Highlights

This highly anticipated sale features an exceptional array of fine wristwatches and holiday-ready jewelry.

  • Fine Jewelry & Watches
  • Highlights

Georg Jensen Silver Collection of the Lyons

Tom and Gussie Lyon’s shared love of design, art, and architecture began soon after their wedding in the early 1950s.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

October Gallery Auction Highlights

Our auction on October 17th will feature a curated selection of Furniture & Decorative Arts, Fine Art, and Fine Jewelry & Watches.

  • Auction
  • Highlights

Musical Instrument Collection of Hank Risan

Hank Risan’s musical instrument collection included more than 750 examples of fine 19th and 20th century acoustic instruments.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

Memorabilia from The Maltese Falcon

On October 17th, Clars is proud to offer an iconic piece of Hollywood history: a Maltese Falcon prop from the 1941 film noir classic.

  • Furniture & Decorative Arts
  • Highlights

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
Andy Warhol (American, 1928–1987), Vote McGovern, 1972, screenprint, 42″ x 42″.
Estimate: $30,000–$50,000

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Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Highlights

This May, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of work from masters like Raimonds Staprans, Wayne Thiebaud, and much more.

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Joan Brown

For fans of the Bay Area Figurative Movement, we are highlighting two works on paper by celebrated multimedia artist Joan Brown this May.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Dia Al-Azzawi

Al-Azzawi studied art in Baghdad, taking inspiration from ancient Middle Eastern mythology as well as Islam and Arabic culture.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Raimonds Staprans

This May 15th, Clars is excited to offer an outstanding oil on canvas painting by artist Raimonds Staprans.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Modern + Contemporary Art Consignments Now Invited

If you have ever thought about selling at auction, NOW is the time. Incredible prices are being achieved on artwork.

  • Consignments
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel

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
John Alexander (American, b. 1945), The Summit Conference, 1986, oil on canvas, 60″ x 66″.
Estimate: $30,000–$50,000

Read More

Modern + Contemporary Fine Art Highlights

This May, we are thrilled to showcase an exceptional array of work from masters like Raimonds Staprans, Wayne Thiebaud, and much more.

  • Highlights
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Joan Brown

For fans of the Bay Area Figurative Movement, we are highlighting two works on paper by celebrated multimedia artist Joan Brown this May.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Dia Al-Azzawi

Al-Azzawi studied art in Baghdad, taking inspiration from ancient Middle Eastern mythology as well as Islam and Arabic culture.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Raimonds Staprans

This May 15th, Clars is excited to offer an outstanding oil on canvas painting by artist Raimonds Staprans.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Modern + Contemporary Art Consignments Now Invited

If you have ever thought about selling at auction, NOW is the time. Incredible prices are being achieved on artwork.

  • Consignments
  • Modern + Contemporary Art

Artist Spotlight: Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel

Marion Kavanaugh Wachtel beautifully captures the vibrant transformation of the leaves in the foothills of California.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Fine Art