Between September 22nd and 23rd, Charlton Hall offers an exquisite collection. Coming to auction—from the Hopper, Kennedy, and Sage collections—is a remarkable array of fine art, jewelry, and memorabilia from a multitude of fascinations. Among them, one will find the Han Dynasty, the Audubon’s namesake, rockstars of days past, and more. View a few highlights below, and be sure to peruse their catalog!
Fine Meissen Cobalt-Ground Reticulated Porcelain Cabinet Plates
Made in the late 19th century, this collection of cabinet plates was crafted by the oldest porcelain manufacturer in Europe. Meissen was established in 1710 by King Augustus the Strong, and for over three centuries, its Saxon manufactory has held the stronghold in European porcelain artistry. This trio is a beautiful example of their work. Each plate is painstakingly painted in the style of the Dutch Old Masters: a young girl inspecting eggs, a writing teacher, and, perhaps most impressive, a depiction of The Banishment of Hagar and Ishmael (pictured here). It is an opportunity to own incomparable craftsmanship with the most compelling of histories.
Georgian Sterling Silver Salver, Younge & Co
This stunning salver is a prime example of Georgian silverwork. Dated 1826, and brought to fruition by Younge & Co, it holds leaf and flower borders with stippled edging, the natural becoming divine. In this period, Rococo was back in fashion, with the Royal silversmiths setting the standard for high society. Ownership of such a piece was a mark of prestige then, and it certainly remains one now.
Platinum and Diamond Bypass Ring
A ring of this lustrous class is destined to be a showstopper. Composed of two round diamonds, accented by smaller diamonds, and set in platinum, it is estimated at a value of $6,000. Truly, there is little more beautiful to adorn your hands.
Ancient Chinese Pottery Horse Torso
The ancient retains its jaw-dropping patina in this piece. Dating back to the Han Dynasty (206 BC- 220 AD), this horse of two-part construction and painted decoration. That, indeed, is what marks it as a Han creation: setting it apart from China’s prior dynasties, the artisans of the Han era chose to represent reality and folktale, adding coloration in their elaboration. This horse of old allows one a piece of mythical history, as well. The capturing of fleet-footed horses are what allowed the Han Dynasty control of the trade routes, after all…or so the story goes.
American Folk Art ‘Jessie James’ Hooked Rug
Usually, the history of a piece is what provides intrigue. For this rug, however, it is what we don’t know that makes it so fascinating. Crafted in the early 20th century by an unknown artist, the folk art found here idolizes Western legend Jessie [sic] James. The leader of James-Young Gang, Confederate and outlaw, is immortalized in country rhyme and embroidery. There is something beautifully simplistic about it. More to the point: Who made it? Who wrote the poem? And why? It may be your mystery now.
