Interior designer collection to spark collector interest

Well-known Melbourne interior designer Stuart Rattle was found dead on December 9 last year when fire engulfed his South Yarra apartment.

Within days, his long-time partner Michael O’Neill was arrested for his murder and remanded in custody until a committal mention hearing later this month.

Mr Rattle owned Musk Farm near Daylesford, a property he bought in 1998 and was recognised for the landscaping he carried out.

The farm is now for sale and Mossgreen has been asked to auction the contents from noon on Sunday June 1.

Situated at 11 School Road, Musk, the farm features many fine examples of English furniture, porcelain, old master paintings, Chinese ceramics and Persian rugs.

Typical of the Italian masters is Sinabaldo Scorza 17^th century menagerie oil on canvas obtained from Daniel Hunt Fine Art in Sloane Street, London.

Another is After Guido Cagnaci Italian school, a 17^th century oil on canvas of David with Head of Goliath.

A third, Venus and Adonis oil on canvas, is by Titian, a follower of Tiziano Vecellio Italian school from the 16^th and 17^th centuries.

Several works are from the studio or school of famous 17^th century English portrait painter Sir Peter Lely.

Much of the furniture is most unusual. Of interest to auction goers will be a large Mannerist style 17^th century French lime wood mirror carved with cherubs and foliage.

An 18^th century Italian painted and gilt lowboy is another attraction, while a large pair of George III style pine bookcases could get plenty of attention.

A small William and Mary English marquetry chest of drawers from the same era is another drawcard and an 18^th century English black lacquered bracket clock by Ferdinand Vigne, London no doubt much sought after.

Typical of the rugs is a large late 19^th century Persian Sultanabad vestibule carpet bought from Behruz Studio in Melbourne.