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Nicholas' Picks
Sr. Vice President, Special Collections
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Is there a more beautiful glass vase? Bacchantes is a true Lalique classic, made in a press molding technique invented and practiced at Lalique’s 'new works’ in the late 1920’s, still in production today. This example is a masterpiece of the use of opalescent glass and sculptural design, which would work on any scale up to monumental architecture.
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I grew up near the Staffordshire Potteries and have spent a good deal of time there including a few weeks shut deep inside the old Minton and Wedgwood factories researching my second book 'Majolica' in the late 1980's. I already was fascinated with Daisy and her fantasy world and never tire of marveling at her unique combination of artistic and technical virtuosity. This example highlights a superb private collection offered in the auction.
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I fell in love with Harriet Frishmuth and this figure when I first saw the huge version in the American Wing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York in 1980. That year I ran my first auction of ‘Art Nouveau and Deco’ featuring a ‘Vine’ and an elderly lady made a special visit to my preview. It was the dancer Desha Delteil, who died shortly after I met her. She had very clear and fond memories of modeling for ‘The Vine’ sixty years earlier. I fell in love with her too.
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Samantha's Picks
Director, Decorative Arts & Design
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Designed by Clara Driscoll, this exquisite blue and green Dragonfly table lamp was executed by one of the ‘Tiffany Girls’ - Tiffany Studios’ all-women team responsible for selecting and cutting Favrile glass tiles incorporated into lamps and windows. The shade, which features seven descending dragonflies with bright red eyes against a background of textured rippled glass in highly saturated blues and greens, displays particularly strong glass selection. The translucent naturalistic palette combined with the ripple effect of the glass create a feeling of depth and movement. It is a beautiful work in excellent condition, and it stands as a testament to the contributions of women to the firm’s artistic and commercial success.
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This Peacock umbrella stand features a finely detailed scene of a peacock in a tree against a lush blue background. The raised decoration adds an interesting tactile dimension to the piece, and its bold, flowing lines and rich coloration reflect the elegance and naturalistic beauty of the period. It's an exciting moment for collectors to bid on a rare and monumental form.
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The face jug has long been a popular form in British pottery - Toby Jugs, for example, have been produced en masse for centuries. The Martin Brothers brought a new level of artistry to this form, creating highly detailed, often whimsical or grotesque faces that became a signature of their work. This Robert Wallace Martin for Martin Brothers double-sided face jug, crafted in 1910, features strikingly expressive faces on each side that reflect the Martin Brothers' imagination. Exceptionally crafted, it is a piece that pushes the boundaries of tradition in British ceramics.
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Christianne's Picks
Cataloguer, Fine & Decorative Arts
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This vase is a strong example of level of craftsmanship achieved by Tiffany Studios; its intricate pulled feather decoration evokes a sense of movement and elegance. It also has a special surprise – a vibrant blue iridescent interior that juxtaposes beautifully with the warm brown color and neutral hues of the exterior. It is both visually striking and a timeless addition to any collection.
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A truly exceptional example of Carder-era Steuben, this vase features one of the rarest Aurene colors produced. Works of brown Aurene were produced in highly limited quanties; this is a true opportunity for Steuben collectors to acquire one of the most sought-after colors in Steuben’s palette.
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The current owner’s grandparents purchased this vase, as well as lot 79110, on their honeymoon in Paris around the turn of the century, and they have been in the family ever since. Fresh to market, the work features an intricate design of overlaid, acid-etched, and wheel-carved hydrangea blooms, showcasing delicate craftsmanship with a harmonious blend of color and texture. Standing at 12 3/4 inches tall, it is a stunning example of Daum's mastery of glass, capturing both elegance and natural beauty in its detailed floral motif.
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Nick Dawes
Senior Vice President,
Special Collections
NickD@HA.com
(214) 409-1605
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Samantha Robinson
Director,
Decorative Arts & Design
SamanthaR@HA.com
(214) 409-1784
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