Rago Auctions held an Early 20th C. Design sale on January 19, 2019. Included in the sale was a nice selection of Martin Brothers stoneware, as well as a diverse selection of ceramics and glass.
The top lot of the sale was a tall (16″) Martin Brothers stoneware bird tobacco jar. Estimated to sell for $40,000 – $60,000, it realized the low estimate of $40,000 + buyer’s premium = $50,000. My opinion is that it would have sold for more if it had had more character.
A George Ohr vase, lot #48, took second place with an attractive double-sectioned vase, 6ΒΌ” tall. It sold for many times its high estimate of $9,000, realizing $46,875, including buyer’s premium.
The selection of Tiffany Studios lamps and glass was limited. Lot #391, a Turtleback hall lantern, performed best among this group. It sold slightly above its high estimate of $20,000, realizing $26,250, including buyer’s premium. Personally I thought it was awful and wouldn’t have bought it at any price, but the bidders did not ask me first. How’s that possible?
For the complete results of the sale, click here.
