A Faberge enamel and sterling silver bedroom clock in its original case (lot 64) will be a major highlight of Christian McCann Auctions forthcoming on site sale bristling with 18^th and 19^th century antiques from noon Sunday October 20 at 9 Barnard Road, Toorak.

A painting made from mother of pearl and featuring a girl seated in a yoga meditation position is one of the highlights of Kim’s Auctions forthcoming on site sale from 11am Sunday October 13 at 27 Foote Street, Brighton.

Other paintings of note include an oil on board with large gilt frame of early 19^th century French soldiers.

Items for auction are scattered through the large home which has been sold, with the owners downsizing to an apartment.

There are several Asian and Egyptian artefacts that are bound to whet collector appetites.

When Christian McCann was invited to auction the entire contents of a Victorian mansion at 34 Brewster Street, Essendon, little did he realise the intriguing facts he would uncover about its past.

The mansion features a tower where the original merchant owner would sit to watch for the ships carrying his imported cargo to sail into port – but that is not what makes this historic property so fascinating.

Any visitor who looks up will see ceilings painted by an artisan who unfortunately would never complete his work.

 Now in his 60s, a vendor who does not wish to be named and who purchased specific art deco pieces to decorate his period St Kilda Street, Brighton mansion has decided it is time to downsize as he moves into retirement.

As a result, his entire collection will be auctioned from 9.30am Tuesday September 24 by E.J. Ainger at 433 Bridge Road, Richmond.

Managing director John Ainger has described the sale as a designer auction with art deco furniture and French designed cherub vases, wrought iron standard lamps and coffee tables typical of the offerings.