Bidders can have their pick of violins Aug. 11-12

HARRISBURG, Pa. – A single-owner collection of rare, vintage, and antique violins is headlining Cordier’s Summer Fine and Decorative Arts Auction. The sale will take place Aug. 11-12. In addition, the sale includes a wide range of furniture, ceramics, glassware, and Americana.

The collection includes more than 20 violins and bows. Among the feature lots is a Francescus Geissenhoff bearing a mark of 1880. It's model after a Stradivari ($2,000-$4,000). According to the consignor, Sam Shaffron of the Dallas Symphony is among the players of the violin. It was sold in 1973 as part of the musician’s estate. Furthermore, the collection is also highlighted by a 1904 William C. Ehrmann ($1,000-$2,000). In addition, a violin labeled “Joannes Franciscus Pressenda a. Raphael…1848” ($2,000-$3,000).

Among the lots of jewelry and silver are several sterling flatware sets. This appears in work by makers including Towle, Wallace, and Reed and Barton. Many interesting examples of historical craftsmanship will likewise be found in this category. This includes the intricately decorated coin silver ewer by Peter L. Krider for J.E. Caldwell. Featured jewelry includes a striking 18th century emerald and diamond necklace, a diamond brooch circa 1910, and an antique almandite brooch.

A large and varied collection of American Brilliant cut glass will highlight the collectibles category. Also on offer is a National Cash Register model 452 ($300-$500). In addition, a collection of Lladros including “In the Gondola,” is on tap. Plus, a Carder Steuben green optic vase ($300-$500).

Drawing early interest from bidders are a grouping of Virginian African American quilts, each a fine example of a less-documented aspect of America’s textile history. Similar quilts were appearing in The Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum’s exhibit “A Century of African American Quilts.” A Lebanon County paint decorated blanket chest ($2,000 to $3,000) also stands out in the Americana category.

Furniture will span American history, best shown by an elaborately carved sideboard ($400-$600), which shows evidence of Art Nouveau, Edwardian, and Colonial Revival influence. Mid-century modern furniture, a particularly popular field, will feature designs by Hans Wegner, Scova, and Planner. A stunning Tiffany tall case clock with ornate figural carvings may lead the top furniture lots with a pre-sale estimate of $10,000 to $15,000.

Earlier American history is also present,with a large collection of Native American artifacts—including 19th century pendants on beadwork, Iroquoian pipes, and a transitional period soapstone bowl—crossing the block during the two-day sale.

Furthermore, the sale takes place Aug. 11-12 at the Cordier Gallery, 1500 Paxton Street, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

For more information, visit www.CordierAuction.com.