Freeman’s Auctioneers hosted a sizeable contingent of international buyers during our Fine Asian Arts sale held September 14, 2009. The large auction comprised many fine antiques and pieces of art from China, Japan and other Asian nations. The enthusiasm present in the showroom during exhibition was palpable and the subsequent mood on the auction floor was festive. Strong bidding on the floor, internet and telephones kept all in attendance involved and well entertained while the prices achieeved resulted in a fine total for the auction house and its consignors.
An exceptional Chinese carved zitan and mixed-wood pedestal desk was among the highlights of our exhibition. Its beauty and good private provenance helped bring a healthy price of $34,600. Its price was expected to be the strongest in the furniture category but a remarkable Chinese hardwood and porcelain-insert five panel floor screen from a local Philadelphia estate soon eclipsed that figure by achieving $40,000 after competitive bidding.
Our collection of Chinese porcelain was nearly exhaustive with several periods and styles well represented. Two fine famille rose ‘three boy’ vases from a New Jersey estate were of particular interest to our audience. The first piece achieved an estimable $13,750 but the second piece, its more attractive companion, had to be fought for. The final price of $40,000 ensured that the two vases will remain together for at least a while longer.
A fine Japanese covered koro by Namikawa Yasuyuki was among the highlights of our Japanese section. It is a superior example of Meiji period Japanese cloisonné and was a fine buy at $8,750 –despite its diminutive three-inch size.
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