MUMBAI.- AstaGuru celebrates a melange of global craftsmanship with its second edition of the ‘Opulent Collectibles’ auction showcasing rare antiques to accentuate and amplify a space with timeless elegance.
Featuring over 150 lots, the catalogue for the upcoming auction has been finely curated to bring together an exquisite assortment of decorative collectibles from 19th and 20th century India, China, Japan, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom. An ode to the rich design aesthetics and traditions from these different cultures, the upcoming auction comprises ceramics, furniture, crystal chandeliers, silverware, Persian carpets, vintage clocks, and many other collectibles.
Commenting on the auction Sunny Chandiramani, Vice President, Client Relations, AstaGuru Auction House said, “The success of our first Opulent Collectibles auction was a testimony to the attraction for fine antique décor items that are steeped in history. With this second auction, we are looking forward to continuing the legacy of bringing the best of ‘Opulent Collectibles.’ Our clients have shown a keen interest in the antique segment and as difficult as the curation be, we are committed and enthused to present collectibles that are rare and of great quality. We wish to cater to their diverse preferences by offering the best of 19th and 20th-century design aesthetics that are in excellent condition.”
Highlighting the auction is lot no. 154, a Royal Silver Mounted Sofa, circa early 20th century. An illustrious example of cultural fusion in colonial India, this magnificent piece of furnishing is steeped in the history of the princely splendour of the bygone era. The rectangular back is centred by a figure of Lord Shiva seated on his tiger. The serpentine shaped seat is flanked on each side by a lion arm support. It will be offered with an estimate of INR 1Cr-1.2 Cr.
Dazzling crystal decorative items by renowned crystal maker F & C Osler also form the key highlights of this auction. Established in Birmingham, UK, in 1807 by Thomas Osler, the company went on to become the foremost purveyors of monumental crystal and cut-glass objects to the magnum opus interior of various princely palaces of British India.
Lot no. 60, a magnificent 24-light Crystal Chandelier from circa 1880 is a three-tiered chandelier with eight beautiful storm shades in a tassel setting interlinked by suspended Osler spear crystals and Osler beads. This lot will be offered at an estimate of INR 30,00,000 – 35,00,000.
Lot no 115, an Exquisite Crystal Table made of solid crystal and decorated with 84 suspended Osler spear crystals will be offered with an estimate of INR 16,00,000 – 18,00,000. Created in circa 1880, the presented lot is a hallmark of the firm’s perfection over the ‘Brilliant-Cut Glass’ technique. Other creations by F & C Osler including two large light floor candelabrums will also be showcased. A large 8 light floor candelabrum, lot no. 147, is estimated to be acquired at INR 15,00,000 – 18,00,000. Another lot, no. 21, a 5 light floor candelabrum will be offered with an estimate of INR 11,00,000 – 13,00,000.
The auction will also present a selection of Persian rugs exuding extraordinary beauty. Adored for their intricate craftsmanship, Persian rugs are authentic souvenirs from the Iranian culture. The finest carpets come from the artistic canons of the Kerman region located in the southeast region of Iran. Lot no. 69 is an exceptional Kerman Wool Carpet featuring a continuous mirroring floral pattern. Created circa 1940, this large carpet will be offered with an estimate of INR 30,00,000 – 32,00,000. The craftsmanship of the region’s weaver community has been hailed for centuries and has attracted appreciation from all corners of the globe. Another Kerman Wool Carpet with a large medallion design, lot no. 142, will be offered in the auction with an estimate of INR 19,00,000 – 21,00,000. The central panel of this exceptional carpet with intricate floral design terminates with a pinnacle dome motif.
The upcoming auction also puts forth an exciting fusion of Asian and western ceramics. With their exquisite beauty and rich history of craftsmanship, ceramic antiques add a touch of traditional sophistication to an interior and can accentuate an antique collection tremendously.
Asian ceramics from China and Japan have always been sought after by the collectors of decorative antiques across the globe. A primary catalyst in introducing the art and culture of the far east to the western world, ceramic art from China and Japan are hallmarks of the understated elegance of the oriental cultures. Lot no. 100 is a pair of large Cantonese Famille-rose vases to be offered with an estimate of INR 15, 00,000 – 18, 00,000. Adorning the collections of prestigious museums across the world due to their timeless value and extraordinary craftsmanship, Famille Rose porcelains originating from China are highly sought after for private collections as well.
Lot no. 139, a large Imari vase with multiple panels executed in a typical palette of bright colours including rust red, green, and gold with floral designs will be offered at an estimate of INR 10, 00,000 – 12, 00,000. Originating in the town of Arita in Japan, Imari ware inherited its name from the port of Imari used to ship these objects to the west. Lot no. 88, is a pair of Satsuma vases decorated on one side with rich-attired samurai warriors, and on the other side with Japanese women in courtly attire. It will be offered with an estimate of INR 8, 00,000 – 9,00,000.
The auction will also present a range of western ceramics from the forefront artistic centres of the European continent – France, England, and Germany. Lot no. 131, a large porcelain vase with a lid by respected firm Sèvres which will be offered with an estimate of INR 9, 00,000 – 10, 00,000. Executed with an opulent decoration of exquisite paintings, the grandeur of ceramics by Sèvres became a testimony to France as a cultured nation with a highly accomplished workforce and articulated the imperial identity. Creations from famed English potter and entrepreneur Josiah Wedgwood also feature in the catalogue.
A beautiful selection of fine hallmarked silver pieces retracing the deft metalworking in India and Europe in the Victorian era will also be a part of the auction. Whether for practical use or decorative purposes, superlative quality classic silver period pieces by iconic silver manufacturers were a must-have in all affluent households. Lot no. 150, an exquisite hallmarked Victorian silver candelabra created by Edward Barnard and Son will be offered with an estimate of INR 10,00,000 – 12,00,000. A french oval-rounded silver jardinière from Gustave Keller, Paris will also be showcased. It will be offered with an estimate of INR 12,00,000 – 14,00,000.
The upcoming auction also presents a large collection of Anglo-Indian furniture. A synthesis of western vision and Indian craftsmanship, Anglo-Indian furniture were executed with exotic hardwood, rosewood, Sheesham and teak wood and often carved with highly detailed foliate designs. Lot no. 143 is an exquisitely carved rosewood centre table with a variegated white marble top to be offered with an estimate of INR 10, 00,000 – 12, 00,000.
Vintage clocks from several British brands including Barraud & Lunds, Thomas Richards, and P Phillips & Co will also be presented in the auction.
