Although the late John Richards remains much of a mystery to other collectors, his name lives on through the colonial Tasmanian furniture items he collected during his many visits to Australia’s island State.

As the owner of the renowned seafood restaurant Food Magic on Sydney’s norther beaches, John spent almost 20 years visiting Tasmania to follow his passion for sourcing the finest sea creatures to serve to customers.

During the course of his visits, the inveterate rare coin collector discovered a love for fine colonial furniture.

From 5pm on Sunday November 17, Australian auctioneer Phil Caldwell will team up with Melbourne-based Christian McCann Auctions to sell Terry and Tena Wheeler ‘s collection of Japanese Meiji Period (1868-1912) masterpieces and rare porcelain at 7 Harper Street, Abbotsford.

The Wheeler collection almost never happened. English born, the family migrated in 1967 to the Western Australian mining town of Kambalda near Kalgoorlie to work for Western Mining Corporation.

Any auction goer interested in owning their own version of the Mona Lisa should turn up to Melbourne-based Leski Auctions forthcoming two-day decorative arts & collectables sale from 10am Saturday November 16 and Sunday November 17 at 727-729 High Street Armadale.

A 19^th century hand painted ivory miniature after Leonardo Da Vinci (lot 770) is a very affordable way of achieving their goal.

With Christmas only a couple of months away, shoppers are beginning to turn their attention to gifts for loved ones.

Melbourne-based Philips Auctions premium selection of antique and modern jewellery, being auctioned online and ending from 9.30am Monday October 28, could be the ideal solution for those looking for an extra special item.
Lot 1, a stunning black and white diamond leopard bangle by Leo Pizzo, certainly fits the bill with its $16,000-$22,000 catalogue estimate.