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#AliceRobat #ArmenianNeedlework #AntiqueAuctions #FolkArt #HistoricalCollectibles #TradeSign #JohnClarke #CarvedWoodArt #WalterShirlaw #ShakerAntiques #DeepRiverHistory #AsianSword #NewEnglandAuctions #AuctionHighlights #CollectiblesMarket
New England Auctions’ February 13 sale, titled “American, Historical and Native American,” showcased a diverse array of items, ranging from folk art to historical objects, tools, and edged weapons. The event was highly successful, with nearly all of the 325 lots finding buyers and the auction house surpassing its high estimate to achieve a total of $405,000. Fred Giampietro, the organizer, expressed optimism about the state of the market, emphasizing that the sale’s success reflected the broad appeal and thoughtful presentation of the items.
The standout lot of the sale was a double-sided trade sign for Alice Robat’s Armenian Needlework Shoppe, which sold for $18,750 against an estimate of $800-$1,200. Measuring 25 by 38½ inches, the sign advertised decorative linens, laces, and custom-made underwear. Little is known about Alice Robat, but the sign’s rarity and charm sparked a bidding war between two private collectors, driving its price significantly higher than expected.
Carved wooden animals by John L. Clarke (1881-1970), a renowned artist from Glacier Park, Montana, also performed exceptionally well. A 17-inch-tall bear sculpture, depicted scratching against a tree, sold for $16,250, far exceeding its $800-$1,500 estimate. Another of Clarke’s creations, a 9-inch-tall mountain goat, fetched $4,500. These pieces highlight the enduring popularity of Clarke’s work, which captures the essence of wildlife with remarkable detail and craftsmanship.
Historical significance played a role in the strong performance of a set of eight pastel drawings by Walter Shirlaw (1838-1909). These drawings were preparatory studies for murals of the eight muses of science (physics, mathematics, geology, botany, zoology, chemistry, astronomy, and archaeology) commissioned for the Library of Congress around 1897. The group, which had been appraised at $750 per drawing in a 2014 episode of The Antiques Roadshow, sold for $10,000 against an estimate of $2,500-$4,500. The set’s historical and artistic value resonated with bidders, driving its price well above expectations.
A selection of antique and vintage wood planes and hand tools also generated significant interest. Five consecutive lots of tools were offered midway through the sale, with the final lot of nine planes by makers such as Stanley, Edward Preston & Sons, Sargent, Union Manufacturing Co., and Tower & Lyon selling for $7,500. These lots underscored the enduring appeal of well-crafted tools among collectors.
The Deep River Historical Society consigned 18 lots of swords and edged weapons, which had been part of their collection for many years but no longer aligned with their mission. Most of these lots exceeded their estimates and were sold to various buyers. The highest-priced item in this category was an “Asian Sword” with a 31-inch blade and a scabbard featuring metal mounts, which fetched $6,250 against an estimate of $150-$250. This lot demonstrated the strong market for historically significant edged weapons.
Another notable category was a group of 15 Shaker items, which opened the sale. Among these, a mid-Nineteenth Century painted oval covered box with early, possibly original yellow-green paint, stood out, selling for $5,000. This piece highlighted the simplicity and elegance of Shaker craftsmanship, which continues to attract collectors.
The sale’s success can be attributed to the variety and quality of the items offered, as well as the competitive bidding they attracted. Giampietro noted that the sale served as an excellent entry point for new collectors, reflecting the accessibility and broad appeal of the auction’s offerings.
Looking ahead, New England Auctions plans to sell the Marc J. Matz collection on March 5, followed by an auction of American, Inuit, Asian, and European antiques on March 6. These upcoming sales promise to continue the house’s tradition of offering diverse and high-quality items that appeal to a wide range of collectors.
In summary, the February 13 sale was a resounding success, driven by strong interest in folk art, historical objects, and antiques. Highlights included the Alice Robat trade sign, John L. Clarke’s carved wooden animals, Walter Shirlaw’s pastel drawings, and a selection of Shaker items and edged weapons. The auction’s results reflect a healthy and dynamic market, with collectors eager to acquire unique and historically significant pieces. For more information, visit www.newenglandauctions.com or call 475-234-5120.
