Quality antiques galore in two-day Melbourne auction

Part 2 of the collection of 18^th century English porcelain, sterling silver, clocks and telescopes Melbourne enthusiast Paul Mitchell has assembled over the past 45 years will be among 1000 items Christian McCann Auctions is offering in a two-day sale from 12pm Saturday August 6 and continuing from the same time Sunday August 7 at 7 Harper Street, Abbotsford.

Mitchell decided to auction his collection in order to pursue his new interest in book binding in the United Kingdom.

The Mitchell collection is part of a mix that includes quality Australian art, antique 18^th and 19^th century furniture from George III, Regency and Victorian eras, and well known porcelain manufacturers such as Royal Worcester, Sevres, Meissen and Dresden.

Buyers will be captivated from the start of the sale with paintings such as Harold Septimus Power’s (1877-1951) Wild Brumbies (lot 3) a strong drawcard.

Other iconic Australian artists paintings, such as David Boyd’s (1924-2011) Playing amongst the Flowers (lot 501), and several works by Pro Hart (1928-2006) are not to be missed.

There are plenty of clocks in the auction but none more appealing than a rare mid-19^th century French three-piece clock garniture with an unusual twin dial and side candelabra (lot 29).

Of great interest to collectors will undoubtedly be the museum quality Japanese (Meiji period 1868-1912) carved ivory figure of a falcon resting on a lacquer stand (lot 40) that was last sold in 1999 by Christie’s and the rare Japanese seated samurai from the same period (lot 571).

A fine quality bronze figure of a maiden reading entitled ‘Liseuse’ (lot 53) by 19^th century French sculptor Albert-Ernest Carrier de Belleuse (1824-1887) is a significant attraction.

A founding member of the Societé Nationale des Beaux-Arts and an officer of the Legion of Honour, Carrier-Belleuse’s career was notable for his versatility and work outside France – both in England and Brussels. The famous French sculptor Auguste Rodin also worked between 1864 and 1870 as his assistant.

A 19^th century Viennese and marble figure group featuring a maiden and child riding a camel (lot 541) is another highlight for collectors.

Quality antique furniture also abounds in the auction – none more so than a museum quality 19^th century French three drawer kingwood bureau plat with ormolu mounts (lot 527) and a 19^th century French three door boulle display credenza with multi-coloured coral inlay (lot 590).

Porcelain is another comprehensive attraction with an elegant pair of 19^th century hand painted Sevres two handled candlestick holders typical of the offerings.