Maori Spoon Serves a Surprise

15th January 2018

With many auction houses not staging sales in January, the team at the Mendip Auction Rooms carried on regardless and there was a busy start to the New Year.

On 9th January, the first Victorian and Later Effects sale of the year saw an excellent seasonal entry of almost 500 lots go under the hammer with a good attendance of buyers seeking a bargain or something of interest. This was closely followed by the monthly sale of Antiques & Collectables held on 13th January with a further 500 lots on offer

The keenest bidding was seen for a 19th century portrait of Mary, Queen of Scots in an earlier frame and this saw bidders on the telephone, internet and in the room battle it out. A local buyer in the room managed to see off the opposition eventually securing the picture for £3800.

Collectables always make an auction interesting and, in the current market, they are often sought after. A Japanese Meiji period bronze figure with an estimate of £80 – 120 sold for £900 and a Maori spoon generated very keen interest and sold for £520, well above the estimate of £100 – 150.

With not quite so much jewellery on offer, good prices were achieved for those items on offer. A charming 1960/70’s ruby and brick-link bracelet achieved £1400, an early 20th century 9ct gold fancy link watch chain or Albert £700, a late Victorian curb link guard or muff chain £440 and a further pair of silver partridges £1500.

The team at the auction rooms will be staging a valuation morning on Wednesday 4th January between 10am and 1pm at the offices of Killens in Sadler Street, Wells so do go along and take advantage of their expertise. Otherwise, valuers are on hand every weekday morning to accept entries or are happy to undertake free home visits. Also ensure that you follow the auction rooms on facebook to see the latest news or register with them to receive the catalogues.