Fine, decorative art auction reveals modest estimates

MONROVIA, Calif. – John Moran Auctioneers announces two Aug. 21 Studio auctions. They include a Studio Decorative Art auction at noon and a Studio Fine Art auction at 4 p.m. The catalogues include a wide selection of fresh-to-the-market art and objects at a variety of approachable estimates. The majority of pieces on offer have been assigned estimates below $3,000.

Moran’s Studio Decorative Art Auction comprises 282 lots consigned from private Southern California collections and estates. The selections include clocks, sculpture, art glass, silver and objects of virtu, and more.

Many of the Continental clocks on offer at the Aug. 21 auction hail from the estate of fine clock collector and connoisseur Harry J. O’Connor III. The selection includes a Louis XV-style gilt-bronze mantel clock that features a waisted case flanked by putti. It should bring $1,000 to $2,000. A delicate Louis XVI-style alabaster and gilt-bronze lyre clock from the collection carries a conservative $500 to $700 estimate.

Additional highlights from the estate include a Chinese silver lidded box repousse decorated with figural scenes, birds and dragons (estimate $400-$600). A carved mother-of-pearl and silver box decorated with Zeus and Hera should earn $300-$400.

Moran’s Studio Fine Art auction will follow the decorative session at 4 p.m., and is a larger catalogue at 313 lots. Primarily featuring works by American artists, pieces by European and Asian artists will also make their way to the block. Works range from the 19th century through to the contemporary.

Continental works include French modern landscape artist Pierre de Clausade (1910-1976). He is represented in the catalogue by “Dunes sur la Cote [Dunes on the Coast],” a view of the beach on an overcast day ($800-$1,200). Also, two cubist-influenced still lifes by Swedish artist Sven Gustafson (1896-1967) will head to the block with conservative estimates. One is a 1961 painting showing flowers in a white vase on a red background that should fetch $500 to $700. 

For more information about these and other John Moran Auctioneers events, visit www.johnmoran.com.