Coronavirus forces McCann Auctions to go online only
Author: Richard Brewster | Posted: 30th March, 2020
Christian McCann Auctions had barely moved into its new premises at 7 Harper Street, Abbotsford when Australian government restrictions on trading and social distancing because of the coronavirus pandemic forced its next sale to be carried out entirely online, by telephone or absentee bidding.
This, despite the new premises being set up with a second gallery specifically purposed for displaying art and jewellery at each forthcoming auction.
Instead, in this new COVID-19 world, the auction house has effectively displayed items for its Sunday April 5 sale online and through video and live streaming.
According to auctioneer Christian McCann, this can be easily followed on request by extensive photos and condition reports.
Sunday’s auction is notable for the excellent selection of paintings and jewellery on offer.
Among the more remarkable art is Australian artist Arthur Boyd’s Lovers in a Boat (lot 9), Sidney Nolan’s Central Australian Landscape with Rainbow (lot 24) and a work by British artist John Burr (1834-1893) The Village Barber 1882 (lot 20), which is estimated at between $60,000 and $70,000.
Another worthwhile and rare painting is Cottage at Marys Hill, Paramatta by Lloyd Rees (lot 130).
An early 19th century Boulle bracket clock on its original boulle tapered pedestal (lot 38) signed by Will Carpenter of St Martins Court in London is another strong attraction, particularly for collectors.
Also the 19th century English burr walnut clock (lot 101) that Christian McCann recalls the vendor purchasing from car dealer Ken Morgan’s collection auctioned by John Ainger when McCann was still in his teens.
Among the jewellery on offer is a 5.82-carat emerald cut diamond 18-carat white gold ring (lot 39) complete with Gia report 2012F18617 and with a $140,000 estimate.
A 5-carat G colour VS2 clarity diamond tennis bracelet in white gold and featuring 44 diamonds (lot 48) is worth examining, while sets of white gold and diamond drop earrings (lot 49) and art deco style ruby and diamond earrings (lot 214) should engender plenty of appeal.
Viewing online only at www.christianmccannauctions.com.au
