Steven M. Fusco, owner and auctioneer of Estates Unlimited, was very pleased with the results of his recent auction, which was held on Sunday, April 19, at company headquarters just ten minutes from downtown Providence. The auction drew a very sizeable crowd, which resulted in some strong prices throughout. It also drew the attention of actor and antiques collector James Woods, who attended the preview with his friend, and, according to people at the sale, he ended up purchasing several lots.
A pair of Rhode Island Federal period chairs, found in a local estate, drew the attention of many floor and phone bidders. After some very spirited bidding, the chairs sold for $2,640. An antique American formal tall clock was offered midway through the auction, and brought $2,090. Another rare clock sold was the antique marble and onyx Nineteenth Century mantel clock. With bronze and ormolu mounts, and measuring 29 by 16 inches, this stunningly designed clock brought a solid $2,430 from a bidder in the gallery.
Perhaps the most unusual item offered was the Native American chief’s hat †a gentleman’s tall hat with a Boston label inside, and dating from about 1900, it had lavish beading on the front depicting an Indian on horseback with an American flag, and flag-inspired beading all around the band. The rim of the hat was beaded as well. With some competitive bidding, the hat sold for $1,320.
A still life done by J.C. Spencer and found in a Cape Cod home brought $935. A wooded landscape, oil on canvas by G.W. Whittaker, measuring 47¾ by 23 inches, from the same Cape Cod collector, and signed on the lower left, sold for $1,100. An elegant ormolu porcelain garniture set sold for $1,320.
Owner Steven Fusco said, “We are a growing and competitive firm. Many people in Rhode Island as well nearby Massachusetts come to us for both our appraisal and auction services. I am working with many banks and attorneys in the area and this results in much interesting and fresh material.”
All prices quoted include the buyer’s premium.
Estates Unlimited is at 63 Fourth Avenue. For information, www.estatesunlimited.com or 401-781-1181.
