Grasshopper weathervane may jump to $80,000

FAIRFIELD, Maine — The Fine Art & Antiques team at James D. Julia, Inc. has assembled an array of fine art, antiques, folk art, Asian artifacts, and historical items from various collections and estates from across North America, including more than 300 paintings and other artworks, for a Feb. 4-6 auction.

The ample selection of art is augmented by two important works by renowned commercial artist Howard Terpning whose credits include Time, Newsweek, Field & Stream, and the movie industry.

The first piece shows a rugged frontiersman traversing a picturesque mountain pass on

horseback. The second depicts what appears to be the same man on a different expedition with his Indian guide on a snowy outcropping. The two works come estimated for $200,000-$300,000 and $175,000-$275,000, respectively.

Also featured are selections from such luminaries as Aldro Hibbard, William Lester Stevens, Thomas Nicholas, Emile Gruppe and others who explore the distinct seasons for which New England is known. Gruppe’s “Autumn in Vermont” focuses on a lone tree overlooking a river valley, withering in anticipation of a long winter. It carries a presale estimate of $6,000-$8,000. From the same collection, John Terelak’s impressionistic “Spring Trout Fishing” captures a tranquil moment on a wooded and sunlit stream. It is expected to bring $4,000-$6,000.

The diversity continues with numerous nautical works by such names as Louis Dodd, S.F.M. Badger, and Antonio Jacobsen. The depiction of the steamer “Guyandotte” cutting through the towering waves comes estimated for $8,000-$12,000. Louis Dodd’s portrait of the “Roanoke” carries an estimate of $18,000-$25,000.

European art is highlighted in part by Jean Frederic Schall’s “La Petite Danseuse La Rose.” With provenance to a French countess, the piece comes estimated for $10,000-$20,000.

Additional items expected to captivate bidders include:

• Group of photos including images of the Beatles and Bob Dylan ($2,000-$8,000)

• Large hollow molded copper grasshopper weathervane ($60,000-$80,000)
• Uncommon set of 25 carved and painted shore birds by A. Elmer Crowell ($10,000-$15,000)
• Effigy pot in the form of a dog, circa 1300 A.D. ($20,000-$30,000)
• Extensive collection of original sheet music, broadsides and photos related to piano virtuoso “Blind Tom” Wiggins ($10,000-$20,000)

Also up for bid will be two lots of Presidential porcelain dinnerware: The first consists of two demitasse cups and saucers, as well as a plate from the Harrison administration. The second is a rare Canton footed open salt from the Thomas Jefferson dinner service. The lots carry estimates of $1,200-$1,800 and $2,000-$2,500, respectively.

Preview sessions will be held each day of the auction, from 8 a.m. until the start of the auction at 10 a.m. For more information visit www.jamesdjulia.com or call 207-453-7125.