Parian porcelain a feature of Australian auction

A norther Tasmanian connoisseur’s collection of quality porcelain is the centrepiece of Christian McCann Auctions forthcoming sale from 12pm Sunday May 30 at 7 Harper Street, Abbotsford which now will be held online due to the current Victorian COVID-19 seven-day lockdown.

According to auctioneer Christian McCann, the auction includes the most extensive and rare collection of Parian porcelain Australia has ever seen.

Among the collection of about 25 sculptures are such gems as a rare figure entitled The wounded scout (lot 44), a 19^th century tall Minton figure (lot 45), a 19^th century Copeland figure of a seated maiden (lot 46), a bust titled Alexandra with Art Union of London Mary Thornycroft 1863 inscribed on the base (lot 47) and a figure group showing mother and child (lot 48).

The auction contains 19^th century overlaid glass, original banquet lamps (lot 136) and Royal Doulton porcelain such as a vase with floral decoration (lot 49) and a pair of tall floral Doulton Lambeth vases with gilt highlights (lot 50).

Glassware includes such treasures as a bohemian amber decanter (lot 260), a blue and amber flare neck vase (lot 261) and a bohemian lidded vase (lot 262).

Royal Worcester also is a feature with such drawcards as a ewer with hand painted bird of paradise decorations (lot 127) and two handled vase (lot 128). Unusual is the 19^th century Mary Gregory claret jug and two glasses (lot 130).  

A quality 19^th century English Georgian manner sideboard (lot 52) is another highlight with a 19^th century English white Carrara marble fireplace (lot 54) also bound to attract plenty of attention.

Another auction highlight is a 19^th century Italian Carrara marble statue of a maiden water carrier (lot 106) signed by Florence sculptor P. Baruani.

Bronzes include a reclining maiden with harp (lot 111), while among the clocks on offer is a 19^th century French ormolu set including four branch candelabra (lot 133).

Auction goers will no doubt be attracted to a fine quality 19^th century kingwood salon cabinet with a rouge marble top (lot 135) and a 19^th century French walnut eight-door breakfront bookcase – and there are several silver items to feature including a 19^th century English serving tray and centrepiece (lots 188 and 189).

Unusual is an original Australian pottery vase of a maiden with gum leaf decoration by M. Slater (lot 307) along with excellent examples of Japanese and Chinese porcelain.

Australian artists whose works appear in the auction include Janet Cumbrae Stewart, John Coburn, Albert Sherman, Pro Hart, David Boyd, Hugh Sawrey and Robert Dickerson.