Rago Arts and Auction Center totalled a strong $5.6 million for 1,380 lots in its 20th c. Design sale, from October 1 to 3. Pieces dating from the early 20th century, including Roycroft furniture and metalwork, which completely sold-out, elicited fierce bidding "at levels not seen since 2007," according to auctioneer David Rago.

The Lambertville, New Jersey, firm's "best results in three years" included a hammered copper and silver candelabrum, 1906-08, by Dard Hunter (est. $20,000-30,000) which more than doubled its low estimate at $51,850. Roycroft lots altogether brought in $220,149 (against a pre-sale estimate of $47,500-72,750).

Bids at the Oct. 1 sale of early 20th century pieces tallied $2,156,076 (including 22% buyer's premium) with 82% of lots sold. The top lot was an Arthur Hennessey Marblehead vase with blossoms which garnered $134,200.

"Lalique and Tiffany went through the roof," says Rago. "A Tiffany fern bowl went for $25,620 that sold at a local auction for $125 just two months ago."

A 30-piece Tiffany Studios glass collection from a Florida retiree doubled its estimate. Louis Comfort Tiffany's sketchbook secured $42,700 while a Tiffany Studios table lamp with daffodil shade went for $41,480.

The Oct. 2-3 sale of mid-century to 21st c. pieces reached $3,418,867 (including 22% buyer's premium) with 80% of lots sold.

"Modern was a bit uneven," remarked Rago. "But still hammered at low estimate."

Schreckengost's "Jazz" bowl, the auction catalog's cover lot, hit $154,000 in spite of clearly stated condition issues. George Nakashima's conoid coffee table topped the furniture category at  $146,400.

Rago's next 20th c. design auction in February 2011 is already taking shape with significant private collections, according to the firm, and consignments are still being accepted.