In the fine art selection, a Howard Schleeter oil glaze entitled “Campo Santo” garnered a surprising amount of interest directly before the sale and brought nearly 15 times the high estimate of $900 with a selling price of $13,420. Even more impressive was the verso label dating it to 1941 with an original price tag of $25. Clarke art specialist Nelia Moore, who directly handled the consignment of the painting, was pleased with the outcome saying, “We knew this was an important regional painting but we did not anticipate such aggressive bidding from collectors and dealers across the country.”

Another impressive and surprising sell in the fine art selection, a set of 4 decorative steel engravings, also jumped from their $400-$600 estimate to a selling price of $5,956. Although the engravings were of a later make, Chinese character signature mark signified the international important of the works.

A favorite item in the sale, and one of the highest grossing lots, was a large platinum and diamond ring. The ring was equipped with dual round brilliant cut diamonds that weighed approximately 2.1 carats each. The beautiful ring went home with the winning bidder for $17,080.

Beyond jewelry, an extensive selection of sterling silver, namely some important Georg Jensen pieces also proved consistent desirability in the current market. A Jensen flatware set in the accord pattern sold for $6,100 and a Jensen grape motif center bowl was close behind with a realized price of $5,856.

Another lot that gained considerable interest in the sale was a 1983 Mercedes Benz 380 SL convertible. There was a slow but steady rise in the bidding to begin the lot but an in-house bidder eventually won out at a final price of $8,540.

In decorative arts, the categorical range was impressive, and the high price of $12,200 went to a rare Tiffany Studios abalone linenfold desk lamp. A bronze empire figural candelabra brought $6,100, and an oversized center medallion carpet realized $9,150.  

Midcentury stayed strong at Clarke as well, and the top lot was a rare Paavo Tynell chandelier which sold for $4,880. A close second was the Laverne “Chen” table which brought $3,294. Rarity and good age propelled a Knoll slide front credenza to $2,196, and a number of early Paul McCobb for Planner Group pieces to $4,026.

Asian did well, including a jade Ruyi scepter that sold for $4,880, a Chinese blue and white porcelain lot that brought $1,952, and a pair of Asian lamps that realized $2,318.

Clarke Auction is accepting consignments for its next sale to be held on November 17, 2013. For consignments, sales, and inquiries please contact Clarke Auction Gallery at (914) 833-8336 or online at sell@ClarkeNY.com