On November 4, 2016 at 10 am, Witherell’s will begin to auction 400 lots of the exquisite California silver collection that belonged to the late Edwin Iloff, a California State University, Sacramento, physics professor.

The lots—ranging from the mid-nineteenth to early twentieth century—will be sold to fund university science endowments that Iloff established.

During his lifetime, Iloff amassed more than 1000 pieces that are splendid examples of the art.

“Iloff was, without question, the most prolific collector of California silver to date,” said Brian Witherell, Antiques Roadshow appraiser and Witherell’s chief operating officer. ‘He approached collecting as a student, not a teacher.”

His inspiration for the regional vernacular of a centuries-old, art form was motivated by his mentor, renowned scholar and author Pansylea Wilburn.

“A chance encounter with Wilburn ignited a passion that would become the primary focus of his life,” said Witherell.

The Sacramento, Calif.-based Crocker Art Museum called the original group the most comprehensive California silver collection ever assembled. 

An important pair of pre-1864 Vanderslice servers, valued at $10,000, was donated to the museum.   

“Giving the Crocker Art Museum a prominent piece was the right thing to do,” said Helen Schmidt, the estate’s executor.

An impressive Vanderslice & Co. (1858-1908) coin silver, footed pitcher bearing elaborate repousse and a Russian winter scene depicting two couples in two horse-drawn sleighs should be one of the most coveted items.

Ornamentation of this 11.25” high piece also includes rim and a wild boar’s head handle.

Of 31 oz troy, it is estimated at $2/4000.

A Schulz & Fischer (1863-1900) coin silver, monogrammed fruit stand supported by a Greek goddess also is expected to be a best seller.

The 14.25 inch by 12 inch by 15 inch high centerpiece is accented by Greek key bands with portrait medallions over a repousse floral base.

Estimated at $2/4000, it is expected to be one of the best-selling pieces. 

A preview of the items will be held November 3, from 1-7 pm at Witherell’s Annex, 1925 C Street, Sacramento, CA 95811.

Founded in 1969, Witherell’s auctions of objects of value—from decorative arts and design to antiques and fine art—to the global online market and places items through private sales. Witherell’s also produces the annual Old West Show in Grass Valley, Calif.  

For more information, visit www.witherells.com or call (916) 446-6490.