After being introduced to the court at Beijing by the Portuguese in the mid- to late-18th century, the use of tobacco spread among the upper class until it became a social ritual, first among the social elite and eventually through all classes. As its popularity grew, snuff bottles became a symbol of status and wealth. […]
5 for Friday
Five for Friday: Rare Artifacts from American Literature
The scope of American Literature encompasses more than just the books written by our most famous American authors; it also includes the personal artifacts belonging to these authors that give insight into their personal lives. Our September 14 Rare Books Signature Auction offers meaningful and unusual lots from these American authors that provides a deeper […]
Five for Friday: Gifts for The Gentleman Collector- Charles Schalebaum’s Vintage Models
The upcoming Fine and Decorative Arts Auction featuring The Gentleman Collector Signature Auction Sept. 22-25 will feature some of the most interesting aeronautical, automotive and nautical vintage model collectibles from legendary dealer and collector Charles “Charlie” Schalebaum. After a lifetime devoted to finding rare, fascinating and important pieces of automotive and travel history, Schalebaum passed […]
Five For Friday: American Historical Items sold at Auction
Important historical items regularly come up for auction, so a full list of lots is extensive. Artifacts from the Titanic, all manner of wars from across the world, ancient tribal and pre-Columbian artifacts and iconic pieces of history, all have been seen at auction somewhere at some point in time. The things I have been […]
Five for Friday: College Football Collectibles
Many fans agree that no sport can match the pageantry and tradition of college football. From the elaborate tailgate spreads to the marching bands and cheerleaders to the rabid fans imploring their favorite teams to pull out a crucial victory, it is the event around which Saturdays are built for millions of fans across the […]
Five for Friday: Movie Posters Give 5 Reasons to Scream
Few people would associate Boris Karloff’s Frankenstein monster, the possession of Carole Lombard and Peter Cushing’s creepy depiction of Count Dracula with the word “beautiful.” Yet the chilling horror films they made famous produced some the most beautiful and captivating works of poster art ever created. These kings and queens of spook are represented in […]
Five for Friday: Fine Art for Beginner Collectors
The upcoming Fine Art Online Auction August 8 is a perfect opportunity for a beginning collector or anyone interested in adding original artwork to their collection. The sale features a number of beautiful European works, at very affordable prices. 1. Jean Vollet’s Field of Flowers, oil on canvas, (est. $1,000-2,000) is a picturesque example from […]
Five for Friday: For the Comics Collector Who Has Everything
Collection completion is very real for those who collect comics. For those who acquire every issue of a comic of choice – Superman, Spider-Man, etc. – there is an alternative way to scratch the collecting itch: comic original cover art. Much of the value in collectible comics is in the cover, and of particular appeal […]
