July Highlights

  • Auction

Clars’ July 14th and 15th auctions will offer an important collection of ethnographic art, ancient Chinese pottery, abstract paintings from artists such as Herb Jackson and James Franco, and beautiful diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry that is perfect for any Summer event.

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The sale will be led by a major and important collection of ethnographic art from Vanna and N. Lee Lacy (Palm Springs, California). Mr. Lacy was a prominent Hollywood producer of films, creative golden-era TV series, and iconic commercials. His collecting has spanned six decades. Highlights include a Bakota reliquary, Gabon, estimated at $15,000–$20,000, and an Olmec figure of a baby, valued at $12,000–$18,000.


A Bakota reliquary, Gabon, raised on stand, 22.5″h (overall); 20.5″h.
A Bakota reliquary, Gabon, raised on stand, 22.5″h (overall); 20.5″h (figure).
Estimate: $10,000–$15,000
An Olmec figure of a baby, 9″h.
An Olmec figure of a baby, 9″h.
Estimate: $8,000–$12,000

In addition to the ethnographic collection, the sale with feature a fine selection of sterling silver and objects of vertu, including a Cartier 14k gold cigarette case, estimated at $6,000–$9,000. There will also be an array of traditional decorative arts on offer, including a large collection of samplers, an English bracket clock, and a Swiss orchestral music box, among other items.


Cartier 14k gold cigarette case.
Cartier 14k gold cigarette case.
Estimate: $6,000–$9,000

Asian Art

The Asian Art department will feature a curated group of ancient Chinese pottery and bronze objects from a Palm Springs, CA collection. Leading the group is a finely cast bronze tripod ding ritual vessel, with original lid dated to the Han dynasty. Another noteworthy item from the Han dynasty is an elegant pottery goose-form bottle vase, which still retains some of its original hand painted pigments. Rounding out the collection are two painted pottery jars from the Neolithic period. Both have classic geometric designs and are still in remarkably good condition.


Chinese Han Dynasty Cast Bronze Covered Ding Vessel.
Chinese Han Dynasty Cast Bronze Covered Ding Vessel.
Estimate: $2,000–$4,000
A Chinese Han Dynasty Painted Pottery Goose-Head Bottle Vase. A group of Chinese Neolithic Period Painted Pottery Jars. (lot of 4) Chinese Han Dynasty Pottery Objects.
A Chinese Han Dynasty Painted Pottery Goose-Head Bottle Vase. A group of Chinese Neolithic Period Painted Pottery Jars. (lot of 4) Chinese Han Dynasty Pottery Objects.
Estimate: $2,800–$4,200

Fine Art

This July at Clars, we are pleased to offer an acrylic on canvas painting by American artist, Herb Jackson. Known for abstract and non-objective paintings, Jackson’s colorful compositions are in collections throughout the world, including in the Brooklyn Museum in New York and the British Museum in London. The work up for auction this month, titled Ancient Cycles, features bright earth tones and has a heavily textured appearance. This piece by Herb Jackson is estimated at $8,000–$12,000.


Herb Jackson, Ancient Cycles.
Herb Jackson (American, b. 1945), Ancient Cycles, 2001, acrylic on canvas, 54″ x 42″.
Estimate: $8,000–$12,000

Also to be featured in the July sale is a bronze sculpture by contemporary French artist, Christophe Charbonnel. Titled Homme à la Pierre, this statue depicts a male figure modeled in a style influenced by antique Greek and Roman sculpture. Charbonnel’s figures often echo Classical statuary but are modernized with heavily textured elements and a degree of abstraction alongside emotive expressions on each sculpted face. The bronze in this month’s sale is estimated at $5,000–$7,000.

Lastly, we present an acrylic on canvas painting by well-known American actor and artist, James Franco. Franco’s artwork appears to be influenced by street art and urban scenery, while also paying homage to Neo-Expressionist artists, like Jean-Michel Basquiat, with bright colors and an energetic feel. The painting will be offered at $4,000–$6,000.


Christophe Charbonnel, <em>Homme à la Pierre</em>.
Christophe Charbonnel (Belgian, b. 1967), Homme à la Pierre, 2003, bronze sculpture, 20″ x 11.75″ x 7.25″.
Estimate: $5,000–$7,000
James Franco, Untitled (Blue Bus).
James Franco (American, b. 1978), Untitled (Blue Bus), acrylic on canvas, 84″ x 60″.
Estimate: $4,000–$6,000

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

The Fine Jewelry & Timepieces department is excited to offer a selection of diamond, colored gemstone, and gold jewelry in their upcoming July 14th sale. This sale features a variety of wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points. To be featured in the sale are a nice selection of diamond jewelry in time for bridal season, including a pair of diamond and eighteen karat gold stud earrings, estimated at $1,000–$1,500, and a diamond and fourteen karat white gold bracelet, estimated at $3,000–$5,000.


A diamond and fourteen karat white gold bracelet.
A diamond and fourteen karat white gold bracelet.
Estimate: $3,000–$5,000
A pair of coral, diamond and fourteen karat gold earrings.
A pair of coral, diamond and fourteen karat gold earrings.
Estimate: $3,500–$4,500

The sale will also include a colorful gemstone selection, including a pair of coral, diamond, and fourteen karat gold earrings, estimated at $3,500–$4,500; a ruby, diamond, and fourteen karat white gold pendant necklace, estimated at $2,500–$3,500; and an emerald, diamond, and eighteen karat white gold bypass ring, estimated at $2,000–$4,000.

Other wearable pieces that will highlight your everyday life include a David Yurman diamond and sterling silver bracelet, estimated at $500–$700, and a John Hardy sterling silver and eighteen karat gold necklace and ear clips suite, estimated at $400–$600.


Left: A diamond and sterling silver bracelet, David Yurman. Right: A sterling silver and eighteen karat gold necklace and ear clips suite, John Hardy.
Left: A diamond and sterling silver bracelet, David Yurman. Right: A sterling silver and eighteen karat gold necklace and ear clips suite, John Hardy.
Estimate: $900– $1,300
Bidding for Clars’ July 14th and 15th auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery 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 Auction Gallery has sold well over $150,000,000 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

April Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present The Maritime Sale on April 18th, our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on April 19th, and our Warehouse Auction on April 20th.

  • Auction

Artists to Watch: California

With this inaugural auction, we take great pride in introducing ten esteemed artists who persistently enrich the tapestry of California art.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Spring Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

This March we are excited to present several very special works in our Spring Modern + Contemporary Art + Design Auction.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Highlights

Clars is excited to present the Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Auction on Thursday, March 21st, commencing at 9:30 AM PDT.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

March Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art & Asian Auction on March 22nd and our Warehouse Auction on March 23rd.

  • Auction

February Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on February 16th and our Warehouse Sale on February 17th.

  • Auction

June Highlights

  • Auction

Clars’ June 16th and 17th auctions will offer an extensive collection of Japanese woodblock prints, important artwork from artists such as William Keith and Albrecht Durer, a selection of fine Native American baskets, and beautiful diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry that will stun at any event.

Asian Art

The Asian Art department will offer an extensive collection of Japanese woodblock prints by Kawase Hasui (Japanese, 1883–1957). Hasui is a prominent Japanese artist who was known for his exquisite woodblock prints, particularly his landscapes. He was a key figure in the shin-hanga (“new prints”) movement, which revived traditional Japanese woodblock printmaking techniques in the early 20th century. Highlighting the collection of over twenty woodblock prints, Hasui’s Winter Moon at Toyama, is estimated at $2,000–$4,000. Hasui’s works continue to be highly sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts. His contributions to the shin-hanga movement and his skill in capturing the essence of Japan’s natural beauty have made him one of the most celebrated Japanese printmakers of the 20th century.


Kawase Hasui (Japanese, 1883–1957), Winter Moon at Toyama, published by Doi Sadaichi.
Kawase Hasui (Japanese, 1883–1957), Winter Moon at Toyama.
To be offered: June 17th
Kawase Hasui, Moon at Ninomiya Beach.
Kawase Hasui (Japanese, 1883–1957), Moon at Ninomiya Beach.
To be offered: June 17th

Fine Art

Clars is pleased to offer a monumental painting by William Keith (American, 1838–1911) titled, Into the Yosemite Valley, circa 1895–1906, on Friday, June 16th. Estimated at $100,000–$120,000, this 36″ x 60″ canvas has remained in the same family for well over 100 years since it was originally commissioned by Robert C. and Francesca Hall (Pittsburgh, PA) from the artist. Mr. Hall is referenced as such in the book, Keith, Old Master of California, Volume I, by Brother Cornelius (1942) on page 451. This is one of the most important works by Keith to have come to auction in well over ten years.


William Keith, Into the Yosemite Valley.
William Keith (American, 1838–1911), Into the Yosemite Valley, circa 1895–1906, oil on canvas, 36″ x 60″.
To be offered: June 16th

Clars is also excited to offer a striking example of Albrecht Durer’s (German, 1471–1528) Sea Monster in the Friday June 16th sale. This 1498 engraving depicts a nude female beside a scaled and bearded merman, thought by many to represent the abduction of Scylla by the sea demon Glaucus of Greek Mythology. This printing is on laid paper with a High Crown with Flourish watermark, categorized as a Meder a printing, and was purchased from Christie’s Old Master Prints auction in 2011. The engraving is estimated at $25,000–$30,000.


Albrecht Durer, <em>The Sea Monster</em>
Albrecht Durer (German, 1471–1528), The Sea Monster, 1498, engraving, watermark High Crown with Flourish (M. 20a), Meder a, 9.75″ x 7.25″.
To be offered: June 16th

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Furniture & Decorative Arts department will offer a selection of fine Native American baskets in the Friday, June 16th auction, as well as other European decor in the June 17th auction.


A selection of Native American baskets including a large Pomo gathering basket.
A selection of Native American baskets including a large Pomo gathering basket.
To be offered: June 16th

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

The Fine Jewelry & Timepieces department is excited to offer a selection of diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry in their upcoming June 16th sale. This sale features a variety of wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points. To be featured in the sale are a nice selection of diamond jewelry in time for bridal season, including lot 7000: a yellow diamond, diamond and fourteen karat white gold ring, estimated at $4,000–$6,000; and lot 7003: a pair of diamond and eighteen karat white gold earrings, estimated $3,500–$4,500.


Left: An emerald, diamond and fourteen karat necklace and earrings suite. Right: A pair of enameled ear clips and ring suite.
Left: An emerald, diamond and fourteen karat necklace and earrings suite. Right: A pair of enameled ear clips and ring suite.
To be offered: June 16th

The sale will also include a colorful gemstone selection, including lot 7066: a pair of emerald, diamond and fourteen karat gold earrings and necklace suite, estimated $5,000–$7,000; lot 7004: a Mozambique, diamond and platinum ring, estimated $3,500–$4,500; and lot 7106: a coral, seed pearl and fourteen karat gold convertible necklace, estimated $3,000–$5,000. Other wearable pieces in the sale that will highlight your everyday life include lot 7110: A pair of eighteen karat gold earrings, Tiffany & Co, estimated $1,500–$2,500; and lot 7123: a stainless steel wristwatch, Superocean, Breitling, estimated at $1,200–$1,800.


A coral, seed pearl and fourteen karat gold convertible necklace.
A coral, seed pearl and fourteen karat gold convertible necklace.
To be offered: June 16th
Bidding for Clars’ June 16th and 17th auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery 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 Auction Gallery has sold well over $150,000,000 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

April Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present The Maritime Sale on April 18th, our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on April 19th, and our Warehouse Auction on April 20th.

  • Auction

Artists to Watch: California

With this inaugural auction, we take great pride in introducing ten esteemed artists who persistently enrich the tapestry of California art.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Spring Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

This March we are excited to present several very special works in our Spring Modern + Contemporary Art + Design Auction.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Highlights

Clars is excited to present the Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Auction on Thursday, March 21st, commencing at 9:30 AM PDT.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

March Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art & Asian Auction on March 22nd and our Warehouse Auction on March 23rd.

  • Auction

February Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on February 16th and our Warehouse Sale on February 17th.

  • Auction

May Highlights

  • Auction

Clars’ May 12th and 13th auctions will offer an impressive selection of Chinese and Japanese works of art, captivating paintings from Anthony Liggins, a range of furniture and decorative items sure to delight audiences, and beautiful jewelry that will stun at any event.

Asian Art

The Asian Art Department will offer a fine selection of Chinese and Japanese works of art, headlined by a Ming dynasty gilt bronze figure of Guanyin. This magnificent Buddhist figure, from an important southern California collector, is distinguished by its large size and superb workmanship in the bronze casting and gilt-lacquering.

A large Chinese gilt bronze figure of Guanyin, Ming dynasty.
A large Chinese gilt bronze figure of Guanyin, Ming dynasty.
To be offered: May 13th

We will also be offering a late Qing dynasty period imperial embroidered yellow-ground twelve symbol dragon robe for an empress. This rare Chinese imperial textile comes from a Colorado collection. Rounding out the sale is a significant collection of Chinese Qing dynasty snuff bottles from a Mill Valley collection formed over the past half century. The collection is comprised of primarily underglaze blue porcelain bottles as well as various glass bottles from the Imperial Workshop during the 19th century.


Chinese imperial embroidered yellow-ground silk twelve-symbol dragon robe for an empress.
Chinese imperial embroidered yellow-ground silk twelve-symbol dragon robe for an empress.
To be offered: May 13th

Fine Art

This May at Clars we are pleased to offer two acrylic on canvas paintings by Atlanta-Miami-based artist, Anthony Liggins. Liggins, born in 1965, is a leading figure in the American abstract expressionist resurgence, as well as a prominent African American artist with an international presence.


Anthony Liggins, Blue Angel.
Anthony Liggins (American, b. 1965), Blue Angel, acrylic on canvas, 36″ x 36″.
To be offered: May 12th

Liggins names music and dance as two of his major inspirations. In the two pieces offered at Clars this month, titled Blue Angel and Sacred Oasis, the impacts of rhythm and movement are apparent. Melting streaks of color echo sonic waves, which are interspersed with repetitive, grid-like dot work, and bold swaths of color play between rigid lines to create a dynamic interaction of the geometric and organic. The two paintings by Anthony Liggins are each estimated at $4,000–$6,000.


Anthony Liggins, Sacred Oasis.
Anthony Liggins (American, b. 1965), Sacred Oasis, acrylic on canvas, 36″ x 36″.
To be offered: May 12th

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Furniture and Decorative Arts department will feature a range of items sure to delight audiences. Highlights include a Steinway and Sons Model M Grand Piano, circa 1929, Serial No. 261276, estimated at $8,000–$12,000.


A Steinway and Sons Model M Grand Piano, circa 1929.
A Steinway and Sons Model M Grand Piano, circa 1929.
To be offered: May 12th

Also on offer will be an assortment of exceptional porcelain dinner and stemware services, including Royal Crown Derby, Meissen, Ginori, Herend, Baccarat, Steuben and other fine makers.


A Royal Crown Derby porcelain assembled dinner service, approximately 106 pieces.
A Royal Crown Derby porcelain assembled dinner service, approximately 106 pieces.
To be offered: May 12th

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

The Fine Jewelry & Timepieces department at Clars is excited to offer a selection of diamond, colored gemstones and gold jewelry in their upcoming May 12th sale. This sale features a variety of wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points. To be featured in the sale are a ruby and fourteen karat gold necklace and earring suite, estimated for $3,000–$5,000; and a sapphire, diamond and fourteen karat white gold necklace and earring suite, estimated for $2,000–$3,000.


May Jewelry highlights
Left: A ruby and fourteen karat gold necklace and earring suite. Right: A sapphire, diamond and fourteen karat white gold necklace and earring suite.
To be offered: May 12th
Bidding for Clars’ May 12th and 13th auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery 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 Auction Gallery has sold well over $150,000,000 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

April Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present The Maritime Sale on April 18th, our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on April 19th, and our Warehouse Auction on April 20th.

  • Auction

Artists to Watch: California

With this inaugural auction, we take great pride in introducing ten esteemed artists who persistently enrich the tapestry of California art.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Spring Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

This March we are excited to present several very special works in our Spring Modern + Contemporary Art + Design Auction.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Highlights

Clars is excited to present the Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Auction on Thursday, March 21st, commencing at 9:30 AM PDT.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

March Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art & Asian Auction on March 22nd and our Warehouse Auction on March 23rd.

  • Auction

February Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on February 16th and our Warehouse Sale on February 17th.

  • Auction

April Highlights

  • Auction

Clars’ April 14th and 15th auctions will offer notable Chinese scholars objects, fine works of art ranging from Maynard Dixon to Red Grooms, and furniture and decorative pieces that will delight those interested in historical travel.

Asian Art

The Asian Art department will offer a nice group of Chinese scholars objects including a finely carved aloeswood ‘scholars’ brush pot, a large celadon jade ruyi scepter, and a Kangxi period underglaze blue and white brush pot painted with various court figures.

Chinese aloeswood ‘scholar’ brush pot.
Chinese aloeswood ‘scholar’ brush pot.
To be offered: April 15th

On offer also is a nice collection of Chinese paintings and calligraphy by some of the top 20th century masters such as Zhang Daqian, Pan Tianshou, Yu Youren, and Pu Ru.


Attributed to Zhang Daqian, Lotus.
Attributed to Zhang Daqian, Lotus.
To be offered: April 15th

Fine Arts

This month at Clars, we are offering an oil on board by American painter, Maynard Dixon, who is much revered for his depictions of the American West and Southwest. Born in Fresno, California, Dixon later moved to San Francisco to study art at what is now the San Francisco Art Institute. There he developed his unique style that melded the bold graphics of Precisionism with the moody atmosphere captured by Tonalist painters, like James McNeill Whistler. The painting in our April sale, titled Sentinel Peak, shows a stark desert landscape with a solitary butte dominating the horizon. A trail of white clouds seems to rise from the peak like a chimney into a strikingly blue sky. This piece is estimated at $15,000–$25,000.


Maynard Dixon
Maynard Dixon (American, 1875–1946), Sentinel Peak, 1941, oil on board, 12″ x 16″.
To be offered: April 14th

Also featured in our April sale is an oil on canvas painting by Croatian artist, Vladimir Becic — a painter for whom Clars holds the highest records at auction. Among the long list of prominent creatives who honed their craft at the Munich Academy of Fine Arts, Becic is known in his home country for helping to usher in modernity in fine arts during the early 20th century. Though his style evolved throughout his career, Becic’s post-World War I paintings are some of his most remarkable works. The landscape in our April auction shows influence by predecessors, such as Paul Cezanne, utilizing tone to portray texture. However, Becic’s forms are strikingly smooth, with flat rocks, glossy water, and fluffy tree tops that emphasize tactility and volume while idealizing and simplifying the forms. The inclusion of two female figures collecting water in jugs adds to the idyllic, otherworldly atmosphere of the scene — a place outside of time with all objects in harmony. This piece, titled Landscape Bosnia, II, is estimated at $20,000–$40,000.


Vladimir Becic, Landscape Bosnia, II
Vladimir Becic (Croatian, 1886–1954), Landscape Bosnia, II, oil on canvas, 29.25″ x 37.25″.
To be offered: April 14th

Another item in this month’s auction is a three-dimensional collage by American artist, Red Grooms. Known for the absurdist humor in his Pop Art compositions, Grooms has worked as a painter, sculptor, and printmaker, taking the latter method to a new level in the work in this sale. The collaged lithograph, titled De Kooning Breaks Out, depicts famed Dutch-American artist Willem de Kooning pedaling a bicycle with a female figure, taken from one of his many Woman paintings, riding on the handlebars. The figures quite literally “break out” in this instance, with the printed paper folding and layered to create a three-dimensional composition. This piece is estimated at $4,000–$6,000.


Red (Charles Rogers) Grooms, De Kooning Breaks Through.
Red (Charles Rogers) Grooms (American, b. 1937), De Kooning Breaks Out, 1986, three-dimensional lithograph and collage in colors, 43″ x 28.75″ x 7″.
To be offered: April 14th

Furniture & Decorative Arts

The Furniture & Decorative Arts department will have a wonderful collection of items in the April auction. Featured lots will span from across the globe and ages.

A fine selection of historic and folk art maritime items, including Titanic and Olympic White Star Lines.
A fine selection of historic and folk art maritime items, including Titanic and Olympic White Star Lines.
To be offered: April 14th

Highlights that will delight those interested in historical travel, include a selection of historic and folk art maritime items, relating to Titanic and Olympic White Star Lines, as well as a Louis Vuitton steamer trunk from the late 1800s, estimated at $4,000–$6,000.

Louis Vuitton steamer trunk, late 1800s.
Louis Vuitton steamer trunk, late 1800s.
To be offered: April 14th

In addition, there will be a collection of Egyptian masks from the Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California). Ms. Barnes was a Hollywood film actress featured in movies such as Auntie Mame (1958) and The Parent Trap (1961). Mr. Warner was a prominent architect.


A fine selection of Egyptian masks.
A fine selection of Egyptian masks. Provenance: Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California). Ms. Barnes was a Hollywood film actress featured in movies such as Auntie Mame (1958) and The Parent Trap (1961).  Mr. Warner was a prominent architect.
To be offered: April 14th

There will be a fine selection of furniture as well, including an Italian micro mosaic decorated foyer table, estimated at $8,000–$12,000.


An Italian micro mosaic decorated foyer table.
An Italian micro mosaic decorated foyer table.
To be offered: April 14th
Bidding for Clars’ April 14th and 15th auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery 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 Auction Gallery has sold well over $150,000,000 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

April Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present The Maritime Sale on April 18th, our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on April 19th, and our Warehouse Auction on April 20th.

  • Auction

Artists to Watch: California

With this inaugural auction, we take great pride in introducing ten esteemed artists who persistently enrich the tapestry of California art.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Spring Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

This March we are excited to present several very special works in our Spring Modern + Contemporary Art + Design Auction.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Highlights

Clars is excited to present the Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Auction on Thursday, March 21st, commencing at 9:30 AM PDT.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

March Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art & Asian Auction on March 22nd and our Warehouse Auction on March 23rd.

  • Auction

February Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on February 16th and our Warehouse Sale on February 17th.

  • Auction

March Highlights

  • Auction

Clars’ March 17th and 18th auctions will offer beautiful Chinese watercolor paintings, fine works of art ranging from El Greco to Andy Warhol, rare gold and silver coins and bars, and a nice selection of diamond jewelry in time for bridal season.

Asian Art

On March 18th, Clars’ Asian Art department will present two fine modern Chinese watercolor landscape paintings. The first painting is by Ou Haonian (b. 1935) and depicts Taipei, Taiwan’s Mount Shamao. The second painting is of a village scene and is attributed to 20th century Chinese watercolor master, Li Keran (1907–1989).


Haonian (b. 1935), Mount Shamao
Ou Haonian (b. 1935), Mount Shamao.
To be offered: March 18th

Both paintings hail from the estate of Albert and Aiko Hyderman. Albert Hyderman (1899–1992) was a successful businessman and art collector. Hyderman was the owner of P. Wiest and Son department store in York, Pennsylvania. Hyderman was also a close friend and patron of Thomas Hart Benton, the regionalist painter from Missouri. Upon his retirement, Albert and his family spent many winters residing in Italy and ultimately in Hong Kong, where he collected numerous famous Chinese watercolor paintings.


Village Scene
Attributed to Li Keran (1907–1989), Village Scene.
To be offered: March 18th

Fine Arts

This March at Clars, we will be offering an intriguing piece from the circle of Domḗnikos Theotokópoulos, better known as El Greco, one of the leading figures of Spanish Renaissance painting. El Greco is known for his mannerist modeling of figures, sfumato color palette, and expressionistic compositions which were underappreciated in his own time but have since found recognition for their innovation in the modern era. The piece in our March auction is an oil on canvas painting depicting Christ carrying the cross surrounded by Roman soldiers. Spanish art historian, Manuel B. Cossio, an expert on the artist who published the defining treatise on his life and work in 1908, affirmed in a letter dating to 1930 that this depiction of Christ is an original by El Greco.

Furthermore, figures in this painting are replicated in other works known to be painted by El Greco, including the figure on horseback, as seen in Saint Martin and the Beggar, and the soldier on the far right, who is seen again in The Martyrdom of Saint Maurice. The work in our March sale, ascribed to the circle of El Greco, is estimated at $20,000–$40,000.


Circle of El Greco, Untitled (Christ with the Cross on his Back and the Roman Soldiers)
Circle of El Greco (Greek, 1541–1614), Untitled (Christ with the Cross on his Back and the Roman Soldiers), oil on canvas, 41.25″ x 33.25″.
To be offered: March 17th

Also to be featured in our March auction, is a mixed media piece by Bay Area figure, Roy De Forest. De Forest moved from Washington State to the Bay Area during the 1950s, where he earned two art degrees and began teaching. While working at U.C. Davis, De Forest and his peers exhibited under the heading of Funk Art, and later began the Nut Art movement, which embraced humor and eccentricity. The piece in this month’s auction displays De Forest’s signature use of bright color and faux-naif style, with saturated objects decorating the paper in a seemingly random and playful configuration. This piece by Roy De Forest is estimated at $6,000–$9,000.


Roy Dean De Forest, Untitled (Drawing)
Roy Dean De Forest (American, 1930–2007), Untitled (Drawing), 1971, mixed media on paper, 21.25″ x 29.5″.
To be offered: March 17th

A third highlight in our March auction is a bronze sculpture by American artist, Douglas Van Howd, known for his portrayals of the American West. This sculpture, titled Friends of Freedom, depicts a golden eagle leaping from the arm of an Apache man, who stands on a base of genuine petrified wood. First received by Ronald Reagan after being created for the Roosevelt Room of the White House in 1982, this piece comes from an edition of 50. Van Howd’s Western-themed artworks have earned him a following both within and outside of the United States, with Friends of Freedom being a favorite among collectors. This sculpture by Douglas Van Howd is estimated at $10,000–$15,000.


Douglas Van Howd, Friends of Freedom
Douglas Van Howd (American, b. 1935), Friends of Freedom, 1982, bronze sculpture on petrified wood base, 73″ x 40″ x24″.
To be offered: March 17th

A work on paper by American Pop Art icon, Andy Warhol, is also being offered on March 17th. The mixed media piece shows an ice cream cone with scoops of red, pink, and white ice cream atop a cone that is decorated with playful line work reminiscent of Art Nouveau design. This work is one in a series of ice cream themed designs drawn by Warhol during the 1950s and was likely inspired by the collaborative coloring parties that the burgeoning artist would host at Serendipity 3, the New York dessert café at which he was a lifelong patron. This work by Andy Warhol is estimated at $25,000–$35,000.


Andy Warhol, Triple Scoop
Andy Warhol (American, 1928–1987), Triple Scoop, circa 1950s, mixed media on paper, estate/foundation stamped verso, 12″ x 9″. Provenance: Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California). Ms. Barnes was a Hollywood film actress featured in movies such as Auntie Mame (1958) and The Parent Trap (1961).
To be offered: March 17th

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Clars is pleased to offer the largest single owner precious metals collection in the gallery’s history. This collection includes uncirculated gold coins, silver bars, silver coins, and presentation coins, some in unopened containers. In all, close to forty lots are expected to bring more than $750,000. This collection will be a highlight of our fine silver and virtu being offered on March 18th.


Large single owner collection of gold and silver coins and bars.
Large single owner collection of gold and silver coins and bars.
To be offered: March 18th

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

The Fine Jewelry & Timepieces department at Clars Auction Gallery is excited to offer a selection of diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry, in their upcoming March 17th sale.


A diamond and fourteen karat gold bracelet.
A diamond and fourteen karat gold bracelet.
To be offered: March 17th

This sale features a variety of wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points. A nice selection of diamond jewelry, in time for bridal season, includes a diamond and fourteen karat gold bracelet, estimated at $2,000–$4,000, and a diamond and fourteen karat white gold reviére necklace, estimated at $4,000–$6,000. A colorful gemstone selection, including a pair of ruby, diamond and eighteen karat white gold earrings, estimated at $1,500–$2,500, and an untreated black opal, diamond and sapphire ring, estimated at $3,000–$5,000, will be offered. Other wearable timepieces that will highlight your everyday life are represented by an eighteen karat gold wristwatch, Chronograph, Hamilton, estimated at $800–$1,200, and a titanium wristwatch, Porsche Design, estimated at $800–$1,200.


A black opal, diamond and sapphire ring.
A black opal, diamond and sapphire ring.
To be offered: March 17th
Bidding for Clars’ March 17th and 18th auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery 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 Auction Gallery has sold well over $150,000,000 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

April Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present The Maritime Sale on April 18th, our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on April 19th, and our Warehouse Auction on April 20th.

  • Auction

Artists to Watch: California

With this inaugural auction, we take great pride in introducing ten esteemed artists who persistently enrich the tapestry of California art.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Spring Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

This March we are excited to present several very special works in our Spring Modern + Contemporary Art + Design Auction.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Highlights

Clars is excited to present the Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Auction on Thursday, March 21st, commencing at 9:30 AM PDT.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

March Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art & Asian Auction on March 22nd and our Warehouse Auction on March 23rd.

  • Auction

February Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on February 16th and our Warehouse Sale on February 17th.

  • Auction

2022 Fine Jewelry & Timepieces In Review

  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces
  • Stories & News

Clars’ Fine Jewelry & Timepieces department had a successful year, offering beautiful diamond, colored gemstone, gold and signed jewelry and timepieces spanning antique to contemporary. The sales included essential everyday luxury as well as fine and important jewelry and timepieces.

Spring Highlights

The Fine Jewelry & Timepieces department’s crowning lot of 2022 was a Rolex Daytona chronograph wristwatch, which realized $75,000 at the Spring Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Sale. The Rolex Daytona timepiece was designed to meet the needs of racecar drivers, allowing them to gauge average speed and track elapsed time.


A Rolex Daytona chronograph wristwatch, ref. 6263.Sold: $75,000
A Rolex Daytona chronograph wristwatch, ref. 6263.
Sold: $75,000

The February Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction was headlined by a diamond and eighteen karat white gold strap bracelet — an unforgettable Valentine’s Day gift — which sold for $37,500.


A diamond and eighteen karat white gold strap bracelet.
A diamond and eighteen karat white gold strap bracelet.
Sold: $37,500

Summer Highlights

Ruby and gold statement necklaces proved to be popular jewelry staples for clients in Clars’ Summer auctions.


A ruby and twenty-two karat gold necklace.Sold: $5,312.50
A ruby and twenty-two karat gold necklace.
Sold: $5,312.50

Highlights that stood out include a ruby and twenty-two karat gold necklace, which sold for $5,312.50, and a Southeast Asian ruby and high karat gold necklace, which sold for $9,375.


A Southeast Asian ruby and high karat gold necklace.Sold: $9,375
A Southeast Asian ruby and high karat gold necklace.
Sold: $9,375

Fall Highlights

A striking blue moonstone and diamond earring and necklace suite realized $8,268.75 in the September auction. Both pieces are comprised of oval cabochon blue moonstones accented by single-cut diamonds.


A pair of blue moonstone and diamond earrings and necklace suite
A pair of blue moonstone and diamond earrings and necklace suite.
Sold: $8,268.75

Clars’ Fine Collectors Auction in November showcased numerous beautiful jewelry lots. One highlight that stood out in particular was a Burle Marx opal and eighteen karat gold brooch, which sold for $4,687.50.


An opal and eighteen karat gold brooch, Burle Marx.
An opal and eighteen karat gold brooch, Burle Marx.
Sold: $4,687.50

Winter Highlights

Clars’ Winter Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction rounded out the 2022 year with numerous noteworthy sales. Favorites of the sale include a diamond and white gold brooch and diamond ear clips by Van Cleef & Arpels.

Since its inception, nature has been a source of inspiration for Van Cleef & Arpels’ creations. In particular, floral motifs have been seen again and again in their pieces.


Van Cleef & Arpels Diamonds
Left: A diamond and white gold brooch, Van Cleef & Arpels. Sold: $46,875
Right: A pair of diamond ear clips, Van Cleef & Arpels. Sold: $25,000

Another highlight of the Winter Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction was a stunning diamond ring designed as a round brilliant-cut diamond, which sold for $46,875.


A diamond ring designed as a round brilliant-cut diamond.
A diamond ring designed as a round brilliant-cut diamond.
Sold: $46,875

Read More

Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Highlights

Clars is excited to present the Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Auction on Thursday, March 21st, commencing at 9:30 AM PDT.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Valuation Day | February 13th

Clars will be hosting a Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Valuation Day on February 13th, 10AM–1PM. This event is by appointment only.

  • Event
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

Varieties of DRC

Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (DRC) is renowned for producing some of the world's most sought-after and prestigious wines.

  • Fine & Rare Wines
  • Stories & News

Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Highlights

Clars is thrilled to host their Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Auction on Thursday, November 16th, beginning at 9:30 AM PST.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

Consignments Invited | Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

Clars is now seeking consignments for our upcoming Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Auction on November 16th.

  • Consignments
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

Summer Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Highlights

The Summer Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Auction will include a fine selection of colored diamonds, diamonds, colored gemstones, antique and signed jewelry, and timepieces.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

2022 Asian Art In Review

  • Asian Art
  • Stories & News

2022 saw wonderful auction results at Clars, with outstanding Asian Art sales throughout the year.

Winter Highlights

Starting off the year strong, Clars’ Asian Art department sold a pair of Chinese doucai enameled globular vases for $87,500 in January. Each vase is painted on the exterior with eight bats amidst stylized lotus petals all between ornate scrolling lotus and vine patterns.


Pair of Chinese doucai enameled globular vases.
Pair of Chinese doucai enameled globular vases.
Sold: $87,500

Another highlight from the January sale is represented by the Chinese huanghuali corner leg table, which sold for $93,750. With small supply of wood, the availability of furniture made from it is limited. The highly figured, honey-hued wood has long been appreciated for its mountain peak and ghost face patterns. Huanghuali furniture can be incorporated into any type of decor to create a more traditional Chinese style in your home, or you can choose to mix and match with more contemporary decor.


Chinese huanghuali corner leg table.
Chinese huanghuali corner leg table, top and front view.
Sold: $93,750

Spring Highlights

A finely molded Dingyao bowl, featuring lotus and other aquatic plants, headlined Clars’ April Asian Art Auction. The beautiful piece did not disappoint, selling for $100,000. The Song dynasty bowl was acquired from the late Chingwah Lee Collection of San Francisco and sold at Sotheby’s Los Angeles Fine Oriental Art Sale on June 8th, 1981.


Chinese molded Dingyao bowl
Chinese molded Dingyao bowl. Provenance: Sotheby’s Parke Bernet Los Angeles, The Late Chingwah Lee Collection, June 8, 1981, lot 263, from San Francisco collection formed over five decades.
Sold: $100,000

The furniture portion of the April sale was highlighted by a pair of 18th century huanghuali horseshoe-back armchairs. The armchairs feature decorative carved panels on the backs with auspicious floral groupings and mythical creatures. The armchairs were a sought after piece and ended up being the top lot of the sale, selling at $200,000.


Pair of Chinese huanghuali horseshoe-back armchairs.Sold: $200,000
Pair of Chinese huanghuali horseshoe-back armchairs.
Sold: $200,000

Summer Highlights

Dozens of telephone bidders vyed for two Chinese imperial bronze ‘dragon’ vases. These vases soared well above estimate to realize a price of $245,000. Each features five-clawed dragons in pursuit of flaming pearls amid scrolling clouds in low relief. The precision and intricacy of the molding indicates the imperial origin, while the patina on the surface demonstrates the age.


Asian Art Dragon Vases
Left: Chinese imperial bronze ‘dragon’ vase, Mark and Period of Qianlong. Right: Chinese imperial bronze ‘dragon’ vase, mark and period of Jiaqing.
Sold: $245,000

Fall Highlights

A strong San Francisco Bay Area collection of archer’s rings led the Asian Art portion of Clars’ Fine Collectors Auction on November 20th. The sale included nearly 40 lots of imperial quality white jade, celadon jade, jadeite, agate, glass, enamel, and various organic material archer’s rings. The collector acquired this impressive collection throughout 1970s to 1990s from various important dealers and estates in the Bay Area, including Ching Wah Lee, Herb Newman, and Sandra Sakata, among others.


Chinese enameled silver openwork archer’s
(lot of 2) Chinese enameled silver openwork archer’s rings.
Sold: $8,450

Read More

February Asian Art Highlights

This February 16th, the Asian Art Department will offer a diverse array of Asian masterpieces that span several cultures and historical periods.

  • Asian Art
  • Auction

Varieties of DRC

Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (DRC) is renowned for producing some of the world's most sought-after and prestigious wines.

  • Fine & Rare Wines
  • Stories & News

Fine Asian Works of Art

Jade, porcelain, glazed pottery, antique textiles, scrolls and paintings will headline our August 11th Fine Asian Art Auction.

  • Asian Art
  • Auction

From the Estate of Vanna & N. Lee Lacy
Palm Springs, CA

Clars is delighted to be offering the Collection of Vanna and N. Lee Lacy on Friday, July 14th in our Tribal Arts, Interiors, Art & Jewelry Auction

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Han Dynasty Highlights

The Han Dynasty was known for its exquisite craftsmanship and artistic design.

  • Asian Art
  • Stories & News

PBS KVIE + Clars Asian Art

Harry Huang spoke to Rob Stewart on the beauty of a Mughal style jade vase for 2023’s Antique Valuation Day.

  • Asian Art
  • Event

2022 Fine Art In Review

  • Fine Art
  • Stories & News

2022 saw wonderful auction results at Clars, with outstanding Fine Art sales doing 42% of total sales for the fiscal year that wrapped in August.

Spring Highlights

Clars set a US auction record for the artist Loie Hollowell (American, b. 1983) with the sale of her 2017 painting, Point of Entry (Blood-Orange Moon Over Orange Sac), that soared above estimates of $400,000–$600,000 to sell for $1,050,000 on March 25 (all prices noted here include buyer’s premium).


Loie Hollowell (American, b. 1983), Point of Entry (Blood-Orange Moon Over Orange Sac), 2017, oil paint, acrylic medium, sawdust on high density foam on linen mounted on panel, signed, titled and dated verso, 48"h x 36"w x 5"d.Sold: $1,050,000
Loie Hollowell (American, b. 1983), Point of Entry (Blood-Orange Moon Over Orange Sac), 2017, oil paint, acrylic medium, sawdust on high density foam on linen mounted on panel, signed, titled and dated verso, 48″h x 36″w x 5″d.
Sold: $1,050,000

Pieces by iconic artists such as Robert Longo (American, b. 1953), Roy Lichtenstein, David Hockney, Wayne Thiebaud, Salvador Dali, Sol Lewitt and Richard Diebenkorn brought strong results for the sale as well. Especially noteworthy was Robert Longo’s lithograph, Gretchen, from 1984, which realized $59,375.


Robert Longo (American b. 1953), Gretchen, 1984, lithograph, 67.5" x 39".Estimate: $60,000–$90,000.
Robert Longo (American b. 1953), Gretchen, 1984, lithograph, 67.5″ x 39″.
Sold: $59,375

The second highest selling lot of the sale was a rare drawing by Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973) titled, Etudes VII (d’apres Manet). Many international bidders vied for the lot but in the end it sold to a buyer in San Francisco for $150,000.


Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), Études VII (d'après Manet), 1961, graphite on les Annonay (watermarked) paper, 17.75" x 23.5". Provenance: Alex Maguy, Paris; Estate of Liselotte Weber (Burlingame, CA). Exhibited: Alex Maguy Galerie de L’Élysée, Hommage à Picasso, November 19–December 25, 1966. Reference: Zervos XX:50.Sold: $150,000.
Pablo Picasso (Spanish, 1881–1973), Études VII (d’après Manet), 1961, graphite on les Annonay (watermarked) paper, 17.75″ x 23.5″. Provenance: Alex Maguy, Paris; Estate of Liselotte Weber (Burlingame, CA). Exhibited: Alex Maguy Galerie de L’Élysée, Hommage à Picasso, November 19–December 25, 1966. Reference: Zervos XX:50.
Sold: $150,000.

Summer Highlights

Clars was pleased to establish the new, world auction record for Raimonds Staprans (American/Latvian, b. 1926) with the painting, Blue Boats, selling for $187,500. This beat the previous record held by Clars from September 2020 of $147,600.


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

Also of note was a rare collection of four works by Leonor Fini (French/Argentine, 1908–1996) that were offered at Clars Modern + Contemporary sale on June 17th. This combined collection sold for an astounding $250,625 with one particular painting, Zorniga, selling for $187,500.


Leonor Fini (Argentine/French, 1908–1996), Zorniga, 1959, oil on canvas, 31.5" x 10".Sold: $187,500
Leonor Fini (Argentine/French, 1908–1996), Zorniga, 1959, oil on canvas, 31.5″ x 10″.
Sold: $187,500

Fall Highlights

Clars’ Fall Modern + Contemporary Art + Design sale on September 16th started off the season with impressive results having 230 lots achieve a little over $1.3 million in sales. Fine Art led the way with $1.1 million in sales with the highlight being Andy Warhol’s complete set of ten screenprints, Cowboys and Indians, selling for $503,750. Rick Unruh, Clars CEO, remarked, “Clars is definitely ‘moving up the ladder’ in being recognized internationally as one of the premier auction houses for Modern and Contemporary works. This past auction was our 3rd complete set of Warhols to be offered in the last 2 years — all with outstanding results.”


Cowboys and Indians
Andy Warhol (American, 1928–1987), Cowboys and Indians (the complete set of ten screenprints), 1986, screenprints in colors, 36″ x 36″ each.
Sold: $503,750

Another stellar performance in the sale is represented by several Pumpkin screenprints by Yayoi Kusama (Japanese, b. 1929) selling for a combined price of $108,750.


Yayoi Kusama Prints from the September 16th Sale
Yayoi Kusama (Japanese, b. 1929), Top left: Pumpkin (Y), 1992, screenprint, pencil signed, dated, and titled lower margin, edition 18/150, printed by Okabe Tokuzo, 6.25″h x 8.75″w. Top Right: Dancing Pumpkin (YOR), 2004, screenprint, pencil signed, titled, and dated lower margin, edition 57/80, printed by Okabe Tokuzo, 15.5″h x 22.25″w. Bottom Left: Napping Pumpkin, 1993, screenprint, pencil signed, titled, and dated lower margin, edition 59/120, printed by Okabe Tokuzo, 21″h x 25.75″w. Bottom Right: Red Colored Pumpkin, 1994, screenprint, pencil signed, titled, and dated lower margin, edition 58/98, printed by Okabe Tokuzo, 18″h x 20.75″w.
Sold: $108,750

Winter Highlights

Clars’ Fine Collectors Auction rounded out the 2022 year with the sale of an iconic work from Tom Wesselmann’s series, Great American Nude, titled The Great American Nude #13 for $162,500. The work is an early example of the series, which he completed in 1973 with number #100. The work demonstrates the artist’s use of bold color and military imagery, along with his famous female nude form — the recurring subject throughout his career.


The Great American Nude #13.
Tom Wesselmann (American, 1931–2004), The Great American Nude #13, 1962, oil, fabric, and collage cut-outs on tin, 7″ x 7″.
Sold: $162,500

Read More

Artist Spotlight: Adolph Alexander Weinman

Weinman’s work embraces both the storied past of his influences and predecessors as well as the developing aesthetic of the modern era.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Fine Art

Artist Spotlight: Paul Sawyier

Sawyier is known primarily for his watercolor depictions of scenery in Kentucky and New York.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Fine Art

Varieties of DRC

Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (DRC) is renowned for producing some of the world's most sought-after and prestigious wines.

  • Fine & Rare Wines
  • Stories & News

Artist Spotlight: Henrietta Berk

Henrietta Berk’s artistic prowess stood out as she delved into the intricacies of human emotion and intimacy during the Bay Area Figurative Movement.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Fine Art

Artist Spotlight: Percy Gray

Born 1869 in San Francisco, California, Gray became a prominent figure in the California plein air movement.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Fine Art

Artist Spotlight: William Wendt

Wendt was among the landscapists who comprised the Eucalyptus School of painters, named for the trees commonly seen in California.

  • Artist Spotlight
  • Fine Art

February Highlights

  • Auction

Our February 10th and 11th Auctions will offer stunning jade from China, rare furniture and collectibles, and Edwardian and Art Deco jewelry from private estates.

Asian Art

On February 11th, the Asian Art department will feature two fine Chinese jade lots comprising a set of imperial quality Chinese white jade belt buckle and associated ornaments depicting dragons and cranes from the 18th to 19th century.


Chinese white jade
Set of Chinese white jade belt buckle and pair of ornaments.
Estimate: $6,000–$9,000

The other lot is a Republic Period Mughal style celadon jade vase and linked cover finely carved in low relief with bamboo, prunus and chrysanthemum along with a pair of magpies. It also has a pair of openwork peony handles and a finial, all set with a linking chain. It is estimated at $4,000–$6,000.


Mughal style celadon jade vase and linked cover.
Mughal style celadon jade vase and linked cover.
Estimate: $4,000–$6,000

Another imperial quality piece being offered in this month’s auction is a 18th century Chinese mother-of-pearl inlaid black lacquered box and cover, which is decorated with a stylized longevity character painted in gold lacquer, surrounded by a profusion of floral roundels inlaid with mother-of-pearl.


Chinese mother-of-Pearl inlaid black lacquer box
Chinese mother-of-Pearl inlaid black lacquer box and cover.
Estimate: $6,0000–$9,000

Furniture & Decorative Arts

There will be a fine selection of furniture, porcelains, coins, silver, and other objects de vertu in our February 10th sale. Highlights include a pair of French Napoleonic demilune bronze mounted tables circa 1850, estimated at $3,000–$5,000.


A rare pair of French brass inlaid and bronze mounted Demilune tables
A rare pair of French brass inlaid and bronze mounted Demilune tables, 19th century.
Estimate: $3,000–$5,000
Camera
Selection of Camera equipment including a Leica M2.
Estimate: $1,000–$1,500

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

The Fine Jewelry & Timepieces department is excited to offer a selection of antique diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry in their upcoming February 10th sale.


February Jewelry Highlights
Left: An antique diamond and eighteen karat gold pendant. Estimate: $1,200–$1,800
Right: A pair of emerald, diamond and fourteen karat bi-color gold earrings. Estimate: $1,500–$2,500

This sale features a variety of lovely new and old wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points, including a colorful gemstone selection with an Art Deco star sapphire and diamond ring, estimated at $800–$1,200 and a pair of emerald, diamond and fourteen karat bi-color gold earrings, estimated at $1,500–$2,500. Other exquisite pieces that will highlight your everyday life are represented by an Edwardian diamond and platinum pendant brooch, estimated at $2,000–$4,000, and an antique diamond and eighteen karat gold pendant, estimated at $1,200–$1,800.


February Jewelry Highlights
Top: An Art Deco diamond, sapphire and platinum ring. Estimate: $800–$1,200
Bottom: An Edwardian diamond and platinum pendant brooch. Estimate: $2,000–$4,000
Bidding for Clars’ February 2023 auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery 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 Auction Gallery has sold well over $125,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook and Twitter!

Read More

April Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present The Maritime Sale on April 18th, our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on April 19th, and our Warehouse Auction on April 20th.

  • Auction

Artists to Watch: California

With this inaugural auction, we take great pride in introducing ten esteemed artists who persistently enrich the tapestry of California art.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Spring Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

This March we are excited to present several very special works in our Spring Modern + Contemporary Art + Design Auction.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Highlights

Clars is excited to present the Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Auction on Thursday, March 21st, commencing at 9:30 AM PDT.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

March Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art & Asian Auction on March 22nd and our Warehouse Auction on March 23rd.

  • Auction

February Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on February 16th and our Warehouse Sale on February 17th.

  • Auction

January Highlights

  • Auction

The Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California), will highlight Clars’ January auctions.

Asian Art

A selection of woodblock prints will lead the Asian Section of the January auctions. Among the woodblock prints created by the great Shin-hanga artist, Kawase Hasui (1883–1957), is the design Zojo Temple, Shiba, commissioned in 1925. Zojo Temple, Shiba is regarded as Hasui’s most outstanding and iconic creation. Among collectors of Japanese prints of the Shin-hanga movement, it is one of the most sought-after and valuable designs.


Kawase Hasui prints
Left: Kawase Hasui (1883–1957) Shiba Zojoji (Zojoji Temple, Shiba). Right: Kawase Hasui (1883–1957) Nara Kasuga jinja (Kasuga Shrine, Nara). To be offered: January 16th

Fine Art

Clars is pleased to be offering the Estate of Joanna Barnes and Jack Warner (Santa Barbara, California). Ms. Barnes was a Hollywood film actress featured in movies such as Auntie Mame (1958) and The Parent Trap (1961). Mr. Warner was a prominent architect featured in numerous issues of Architectural Digest. One of the highlights from the estate is a large monotype (diptych) by Charles Arnoldi (American, b. 1946), Untitled (GTW-CA-SF-3-86), estimated at $12,000–$18,000. This colorful work exemplifies Arnoldi’s bold style.


Untitled (GTW-CA-SF-3-86)
Charles Arnoldi (American, b. 1946), Untitled (GTW-CA-SF-3-86), 1986, monotype (diptych), 78″ x 85.5″. To be offered: January 13th

Furniture & Decorative Arts

Clars’ Furniture & Decorative Arts department will be offering a selection of Spanish Colonial religious figures including a Spanish Colonial santos figure, 18th century, with inset glass eyes and painted details, overall 22″h estimated at $2,000–$4,000, and a Spanish Colonial gilt and polychrome decorated santos figure, retaining original pigment decorated face with glass eyes, and traces of pigment to the body, 37″h x 28″w, also with a $2,000–$4,000 estimate. Rounding out the sale, our fine silver and Vertu department will offer a selection of fine sterling silver from important Bay Area estates and collections.


Spanish Colonial santos figure
Spanish Colonial santos figure. To be offered: January 13th

Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

The Fine Jewelry & Timepieces department at Clars is excited to offer a selection of diamond, colored gemstone and gold jewelry, in their upcoming January 13th sale. This sale features a variety of wardrobe staples to build up the foundation of your jewelry collection at accessible price points, including a colorful gemstone selection with a jadeite and fourteen karat gold ring, estimated at $800–$1,200, and an opal, diamond and fourteen karat gold pendant necklace, estimated at $2,500–$3,500. Other wearable pieces that will highlight your everyday life are featured by makers such as Tiffany & Co., represented in a coral and eighteen karat gold brooch, estimated at $1,200–$1,800.


a jadeite and fourteen karat gold ring
A jadeite and fourteen karat gold ring.
To be offered: January 13th
Bidding for Clars’ January 2023 auctions is available by phone, absentee bid, and live online at Live.Clars.com and through Liveauctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Clars Auction Gallery is located at 5644 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609.

Clars Auction Gallery is based in Oakland (CA) and is the largest full-service auction gallery in the Western United States. Clars Auction Gallery 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 Auction Gallery has sold well over $125,000,000 of Fine Art, Furnishings, Jewelry, Vehicles and Collectibles and has set multiple new world auction records. Follow Clars on Facebook and Twitter!

Read More

April Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present The Maritime Sale on April 18th, our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on April 19th, and our Warehouse Auction on April 20th.

  • Auction

Artists to Watch: California

With this inaugural auction, we take great pride in introducing ten esteemed artists who persistently enrich the tapestry of California art.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Spring Modern + Contemporary Art Highlights

This March we are excited to present several very special works in our Spring Modern + Contemporary Art + Design Auction.

  • Auction
  • Modern + Contemporary

Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Highlights

Clars is excited to present the Spring Luxury Jewels & Timepieces Auction on Thursday, March 21st, commencing at 9:30 AM PDT.

  • Auction
  • Fine Jewelry & Timepieces

March Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art & Asian Auction on March 22nd and our Warehouse Auction on March 23rd.

  • Auction

February Auction Highlights

Clars is excited to present our Furniture, Art, Jewelry & Asian Auction on February 16th and our Warehouse Sale on February 17th.

  • Auction