People often ask me what I collect. The answer? Everything. Not really, but my collecting habit is what originally got me into this. Today, my collection consists of things that we overpaid on and things
that may have a bit of damage.
It is easy to boast (but still hard to believe) that our little Tampa Bay auction house has achieved worldwide status. Having sold almost $200 million of fine and decorative arts over the years, this past year was the most astonishing. An Andy Warhol print for $65,000, a Tiffany window for $165,000, an obscure oil on canvas for $33,000.
Perhaps you have heard of the expression, “keeping your powder dry.” While it was important to keep your matches dry in the 1800s, match safes, also known as vesta cases (things often worn on chains and kept in vests or pockets), were indispensable accessories from the
mid-19th century to the early 20th century.
I thought we would share some cool things from last week’s Hess Fine Art auction. Instead of boasting about the rare Patek that brought $40,000
or the rare mid-century print that brought $50,000, we thought it might be more interesting to share
some less valuable but still cool items of interest.
This week, a reader reached out to us about an interesting set of epaulets. Militaria collecting typically appeals to history and Americana enthusiasts. While they are known
for their intricate designs and stately manner and elegance, epaulets – an ornamental shoulder piece traditionally used to display military rank and regimental affiliation – are not really used for anything now except for decorative purposes.
We buy prints. But we are selective. Real prints (lithographs, serigraphs, screenprints, etc., by famous artists) can be worth a lot of money. We
have been fortunate to have sold Andy Warhol prints for as much as $50,000 for a short edition of only 5 made (a panda), to as little as $2,500 for a bean soup can print that was a
water-damaged insurance salvage.
We will be featuring an unpretentious painting by Willie Earl Robinson in our worldwide auction
next month. We purchased it for $600. We’ve estimated it at a modest $700 to $1,000.
Jewelry depicting people of color has long been collectible. In the 19th century, Americans of color were
depicted in postcards, toys and other controversial in a disrespectful way.
Jewelry depicting “Moors” was often
done in a more dignified manner.
We’re not new to this category. Years ago, we were chosen to auction 40 Murano glass chandeliers and light fixtures that the Vinoy instructed us to sell.
Before we delve into the details of the auction, let’s explain some typical accepted auction terms.
