Highlights from our October 18th Auction include contemporary design pieces, a collection of Japanese and Western art from the esteemed Mitsui family, wristwatches from renowned manufacturers, and works from the private collection of architecture and design firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM).

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The gallery sale on Friday will present a diverse assortment of sterling silver, porcelain, glass, furniture, Indigenous art, and carpets. Notable items include antique accessories from Palais Royal and Vizagapatam, as well as an Antoine Bourdelle bronze Medusa door knocker. Contemporary works from acclaimed artists such as Preston Singletary, Chihuly, Beatrice Wood, Gambone, Adrian Persal, Harry Bertoia, and Niamh Barry will also be featured, ensuring a wide range of styles and artistic expressions.

Fine Jewelry & Watches

Clars is excited to announce its October Fine Watches and Jewelry Auction, set to take place on Friday, October 18th, starting at 9:30 AM PDT. This event will feature an exceptional collection of over ninety wristwatches from renowned German, Swiss, Japanese, and French manufacturers, including prestigious brands like Maurice Lacroix, Grand Seiko, Longines, Nomos, Farer, Certina, Omega, and Junghans. With a diverse array of styles and finishes, this selection caters to both seasoned collectors and enthusiastic newcomers alike.

In addition to the timepieces, the auction will showcase a stunning array of fine jewelry designed to enhance any collection. Highlights include classic pearls, exquisite gold pieces, and dazzling diamond creations, alongside rare gemstones such as vibrant sapphires and rich emeralds. This comprehensive offering makes the auction a must-attend event for jewelry aficionados and watch enthusiasts.

Fine Art

Clars’ Fine Art department is pleased to announce a selection of works from the private collection of the renowned architecture and design firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in our upcoming auction. Among the highlights is a captivating 1962 oil on canvas titled Windswept by Carl Morris (American, 1911–1993), with an estimated value of $6,000– $9,000. This piece, along with others by Morris, has seen increased interest in recent years due to the artist’s significant contributions to mid-century art.

Another standout work from the SOM collection is Pyramid by Alan J. Shields (American, 1944–2005). This piece is a whimsical painted and beaded canvas showcasing Shield’s playful style, estimated at $5,000–$7,000. Additional works by notable artists such as Margo Hoff, Gideon Jacques Denny, and Mark Adams will also be included in the auction.

Asian Art

The Asian Art segment will feature a remarkable group of nine stoneware pieces by Morino Taimei (born 1934), hailing from a private collection. Taimei’s work is represented in esteemed institutions, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art and The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Additionally, a rare 18th century Tibetan thangka depicting the Buddha will be offered, providing a glimpse into the rich history and artistry of the region.

The Warehouse Auction: October 19th

The Warehouse Auction features an eclectic mix of art, prints, and photographs, with each month bringing a diverse selection of paintings, prints, and sculptures from around the globe, all with accessible estimates. The Asian Art Department will present a carefully curated assortment, including Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and various decorative pieces. In the Jewelry Department, we are excited to offer a range of affordable items, from diamonds to silver and gold necklaces. 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. Collections include opaline glass, Tartanware, Russian lacquer boxes and Bjørn Wiinblad porcelain.

Clars is excited to present our Jewelry, Furniture, Art & Fine Asian Auction on Friday, August 16th, starting at 9:30 AM PDT. Highlights include striking jewelry, Indigenous art, emotive artworks, and Chinese ink paintings.

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

The Jewelry portion of the auction features an exquisite collection of both antique and contemporary jewelry, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your summer wardrobe. Highlights include remarkable Art Deco pieces, such as a diamond and 14k white gold bracelet and rock crystal brooch, estimated at $700–$900; a diamond and 14k white gold engagement ring with guard, estimated at $500–$700; and an Art Deco diamond and 14k white gold pin, estimated at $150–$250.

In addition, we will offer stunning items like a pair of cultured pearl, diamond, platinum, and white gold day/night clip earrings, estimated at $8,000–$12,000; an emerald and 14k gold necklace, estimated at $5,000–$7,000; and multi-color sapphire, diamond, and 18k gold hoop earrings, estimated at $3,000–$4,000. Other notable pieces include an amethyst and 14k gold necklace, estimated at $3,000–$5,000; a tanzanite, diamond, and 18k white gold ring, estimated at $2,000–$3,000; a mabé cultured pearl, diamond, and 18k gold earring and ring set, estimated at $1,200–$1,800; a multi-hue South Sea cultured pearl and 14k gold necklace, estimated at $1,200–$1,800; and a Tiger Eye Men’s Ring, estimated at $1,200–$1,800.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The gallery sale will showcase a diverse array of items, including silver, porcelain, glass, furniture, Indigenous art, and carpets. Among the standout pieces are collections of Meissen porcelain and contemporary Inuit masks of substantial size, as well as a finely carved Renaissance cabinet and a Louis XVI style brass inlaid roll-top secretary desk. Additionally, classic furniture selections from Old Hickory and McGuire will complement the sale.

Fine Art

This August, Clars is delighted to feature a variety of works by international artists in painting, sculpture, and printmaking. A highlight of the auction is an oil on canvas by Dutch painter Barend Cornelis Koekkoek, known as the Prince of Landscape Painting. Koekkoek, a prominent figure in Dutch Romanticism, created lush, light-infused landscapes that captivated royalty and influenced later artists. The painting in our auction depicts travelers strolling through a verdant countryside, with natural light casting dramatic pink and golden hues.

Another notable piece is by modern American artist Jane Wilson, known for her expressionist landscapes. Wilson’s work, including the 1955 painting Summer Breakfast, blends elements of expressionism with her Midwestern background. This piece portrays a contemplative scene of two women at breakfast — reflecting the moody, emotive quality characteristic of Wilson’s style.

Also featured is a bronze sculpture by Native American artist, Doug Hyde. Born of Assiniboine, Nez Perce, and Ojibwe heritage, Hyde’s work often draws from indigenous mythology and history. The bronze sculpture, titled Hopi Butterflies, captures a group of women in traditional dress engaged in conversation, showcasing Hyde’s modernized yet respectful interpretation of indigenous subjects.

Fine Asian Art

The auction will include high-quality works of Asian art, including contemporary Chinese ink paintings, a Tibetan black-ground thangka of Vajrabhairava, Chinese cloisonné enamel burners, a pair of Chinese jade and hardstone embellished lacquer panels, various types of fine jades, porcelains, embroidery, and various miscellaneous items.

Leading the lineup is Setting Sail, a hanging scroll, ink, and color on paper from 1977. This late-period work by Zhang Daqian depicts several quaint cottages nestled at the foot of steep mountains, with small boats gradually disappearing into the distance on the sea. Through this painting, Zhang expresses his blessings for his friend’s forthcoming journey and his reluctance to part. This painting comes from Harvey CV Liu, gifted by Zhang just before he moved from Taiwan to San Francisco, California.

Another featured work is the hanging scroll The Scholar by Zhang Daqian — an ink and color on paper which showcases his masterful delineation of character lines and the elegant depiction of figures.

At the same time, we will also present Pu Ru’s fan painting Secluded Dwelling in Autumn Mountains. Pu Ru’s landscape paintings convey an elegant and refined artistic conception, with meticulously structured and vigorous brushwork and subtle layering of colors. In Secluded Dwelling in Autumn Mountains, Pu Ru uses different shades of ink to artfully render forests and cottages, presenting a harmonious composition. This piece was gifted by Pu Ru to a collector’s father.

The Warehouse Auction

The Warehouse auction is offering an extensive and fine private collection of items from the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition (PPIE) in San Francisco. The collection includes original glass Novagems, sterling trophies, exhibit items, enamel pins, and watch fobs, as well as Panama Canal memorabilia. Felt pennants, photographs, and presentation articles related to exposition president Charles C Moore, San Francisco mayor James Rolph, Jr., and United States President William Howard Taft, are also available. Complementing the historical collection, this monthly sale also boasts a wide array of contemporary and antique furniture, decorative arts, and rugs.

Also on offer will be an eclectic range of art, prints and photographs. Each month we select paintings, prints, and sculptures in diverse styles from all over the world to offer with accessible estimates. The Asian Art Department presents a meticulously curated collection spanning Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and various decorative pieces. Meanwhile, the Jewelry department is thrilled to present an array of affordable items, including diamonds, silver and gold necklaces.

Explore a rich variety of collectibles at Clars’ July 19th auction, featuring Jewelry, Furniture, Fine Art, and Asian works. Highlights include contemporary and vintage watches, exquisite gemstones, and a range of European and modern furnishings.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Notable pieces such as a Napoleon III gilt bronze boulle cabinet and iconic Eames chairs will be up for auction. Of particular interest are eight tole hanging lanterns, originally refurbished by Caldwell & Co. for Marjorie Merriweather Post’s Mar-a-Lago, once owned by Donald Trump and previously sold at Christie’s in 1995.

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

This sale will showcase a stunning collection of diamonds, timepieces, antique jewelry, and Art Deco pieces.

Fine Art

A notable feature of this auction is the Art & Photography Collection from the Estate of Professor Raymond Lifchez of Berkeley, California. Professor Lifchez, who served over 50 years as a Professor Emeritus of Architecture and City & Regional Planning at the University of California, Berkeley, was a pioneering advocate for accessible design education. The collection includes works by renowned photographers such as Ruth Bernhard, Manuel Alvarez Bravo, Harry Callahan, Robert Capa, and others, reflecting Lifchez’s profound impact on design and education.

Asian Art

The Asian Art department will showcase a compelling collection of Buddha figures, including a Burmese gilt lacquered wood figure and a standing Burmese wood figure. Additionally, standout items include a Chinese cloisonné enamel dragon wash basin and various porcelain pieces.

The Warehouse Auction

Clars’ Warehouse auction is set to showcase an eclectic range of art, prints, and photographs. Each month, we select paintings, prints, and sculptures in diverse styles from all over the world to offer with accessible estimates. The Warehouse boasts an affordably priced collection that encompasses modern and antique furniture and décor, silver, porcelain, glass, fashion, collectible toys, books, and indigenous arts.

The Asian Art Department presents a curated collection in our July Warehouse Auction, spanning Japanese woodblock prints, ceramics, folding screens, and various decorative pieces. Additionally, our selection includes decorative Chinese furniture, jade and hardstone carvings, and ceramics from various periods.

Clars is pleased to offer the Art & Photography Collection from the Estate of Professor Raymond Lifchez (Berkeley, California).

Lifchez was Professor Emeritus of Architecture and City & Regional Planning at the University of California, Berkeley for over 50 years. Lifchez made a deep and lasting impact on teaching, advocacy for accessible design and was a pioneer in incorporating accessibility/disability justice into design education.

Photographers to be featured include: Ruth Bernhard, Manual Alvarez Bravo, Harry Callahan, Robert Capa, Keith Carter, Robert Doisneau, Horst P. Horst, Michael Kenna, Joanne Leonard, Sally Mann, Nicholas Nixon, Bill Owens, Man Ray, Leo Rubinfien, Anna Draper Shaw, Garry Winogrand, and Max Yavno.

Annie Leibovitz began her artistic career at the San Francisco Art Institute in the late 1960s, where she originally studied painting but was inspired to change her focus to photography. In 1970, Leibovitz began working as a staff photographer for Rolling Stone magazine, where she continued to photograph musicians such as John Lennon and Fleetwood Mac for 13 years.

In 1970, the then 21-year-old Leibovitz secured an interview with Jann Wenner, the founding editor of Rolling Stone. Impressed by her portfolio, Wenner entrusted her with her inaugural task, capturing photos of John Lennon in New York. The photograph to be offered at Clars’ Fall Modern + Contemporary Art Auction originates from the momentous session and effectively captures a portion of the lighthearted essence shared by the renowned couple. An image of Lennon by Leibovitz from this series graced the cover of Rolling Stone in January 1971, marking a pivotal juncture in the early journey of this significant photographer. She quickly gained recognition for her distinctive style of capturing candid and intimate moments with musicians and celebrities.

Nearly a decade after, on December 8, 1980, Leibovitz captured the iconic photo of a nude Lennon embracing a clothed Yoko. In taking this photo, Leibovitz became the final professional photographer to immortalize Lennon before his tragic shooting and death, which happened just five hours later. Her iconic photograph of John and Yoko is one of her most famous works from that era. Leibovitz’s photographs for Rolling Stone helped redefine the concept of celebrity portraiture and set a new standard for the magazine’s visual identity.

In 1983, Leibovitz started working with Vanity Fair magazine, and in 1991, she was the first woman to stage an exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in London. In her personal life, Leibovitz was the long-time partner of writer and philosopher Susan Sontag and has three daughters.

Clars Auction Gallery proudly partnered with MoPAr on an NFT (Non-Fungible Token) workshop May 25th, 11AM PST. What is an NFT and How Do NFTs work?

Are you curious about how to buy and sell an NFT at Auction? The print of the photo, Girl with Candy, fetched $8,165 at auction, and the digital version is now being offered in Clars’ inaugural NFT auction. If you’re curious on how to get started and how to purchase your first NFT, Clars’ NFT offering of Girl with Candy allows buyers and collectors a chance to own on the blockchain while raising funds for Ukraine.

To learn more, please watch the recording of our workshop.

About MoPAr

The Museum of Permuted Art creates thought provoking NFTs to bring IRL classical art to web3 by collaborating with today’s NFT artists and institutions. Prioritizing innovation, they use their own blockchain technology to explore ways to connect present day art to the past, engaging their community with different cultures, periods and art forms. 4% of the total MoPAr mint proceeds are directed to their #ForTheArt fund that seeks to make an impact in the arts as directed by their collectors and community.

NBC media interview with Senior Fine Art Specialist Alexa Malvino, on the incredible results of the photograph Girl with Candy by Oleksii Kyryrenchko.

A limited edition signed print will be offered April 24th to help in the aid effort in Ukraine.

Clars Auction Gallery is proud to be offering a print of the photograph Girl with Candy by now world-renowned Ukrainian photographer Oleksii Kyrychenko. Oleksii blew-up on social media after uploading the photo of his young daughter holding a (unloaded) double barrel rifle with lollipop in mouth, just days before Ukraine was attacked by Russian forces. Oleksii, who’s been a photography hobbyist since school, wanted to capture and show the world what a war-torn Ukraine would look like for its people and its children. Despite attempts to share the images on Facebook, they were not truly appreciated until his dystopian photograph became reality.

Oleksii said, “I posted the photo to a few Facebook foreign photo groups. They were banned immediately in those with Russian admins. The other groups were ambiguous about the piece. A lot of people criticized the photo for showing a child with a weapon. Finally, the photo remained posted in only one group.” But after the atrocities of the war began, he went on to say, “Suddenly the image had spread all over the world. The opinions of these photos have changed completely, as now the world has seen the real face of the Russian invasion.”

Clars will be auctioning a print of the photograph, printed here in Oakland by permission of the photographer. It is one of a limited edition of 5, which will be auctioned in our April 24th sale with an estimate of $1,000–$2,000.

Oleksii has requested that half of the proceeds be donated to Come Back Alive, a non-governmental organization helping the Ukrainian military by supplying troops with technical support and medical aid.