Saturday, March 22, 2025

Kimberly Hong Joins Atlanta-Based Auction Powerhouse Ahlers & Ogletree as Director of Sales & Business Development

Atlanta, GA, USA, March 22, 2025 --
Kimberly Hong has joined Ahlers & Ogletree and will serve as the Atlanta auction powerhouse’s Director of Sales & Business Development, Trusts & Estates, and Private Clients. She will play a critical role in expanding the company’s business-to-business pipeline, managing and growing the sales team and broadening its market reach throughout Georgia and the Southeast.

“This role requires a results-driven leader with experience in relationship-building, business strategy and team management within the fine art, luxury goods, antiques and auction industries,” said Robert Ahlers, president and owner of The Ahlers Group, the corporate umbrella under which Ahlers & Ogletree and other related companies exist. “Kim Hong checks all those boxes and then some.”

This is actually Ms. Hong’s second stint with the firm. From 2014-2017 she served as the company’s Director of Consignments. In that capacity she oversaw auction cataloging and the photography staff; managed consignment intake; and worked with the strategy and management team. Before that she worked as a cataloger at Jackson’s International Auctioneers & Appraisers in Cedar Falls, Iowa.

After leaving A&O in 2017, she became the owner of Collected Appraisals and Advisory, an appraisal and advisory services firm based in Portland, Oregon. While in Portland, she also worked for The Fine Art Group (formerly Pall Mall Art Advisors) as a generalist appraiser. Her role later expanded to run the Mountain Territory.

Kimberly Hong holds a B.A. degree in Art History and Communications from Saint Louis University. She earned her M.A. degree in Art History from the University of Oregon. She is a member of the International Society of Appraisers and serves on their Antiques, Furnishings & Decorative Arts Committee. She also earned an Applied Jewelry Professional diploma from the Gemological Institute of America.

Ahlers & Ogletree is a full-service auction house located in Atlanta, Georgia. Owned and operated by Robert Ahlers and his wife, Christy Ogletree Ahlers, the duo combines their collective 40 years’ of experience to connect sellers and buyers with rare and coveted items and collections.

“From our earliest days, we realized the story of an item or collection is just as important as the piece itself,” Mr. Ahlers said. “That’s why we’ve always taken the time to painstakingly research and authenticate each item we agree to consign. This attention to detail is an integral reason A&O has been recognized for expanding regional interest in the industry, fostering an environment of integrity and honesty, and for introducing an innovative brand that offers turn-key service for any estate.”

Today, sellers and buyers enjoy 12 -15 auctions each year, featuring a diverse assortment of carefully curated items and collections including rare objects, fine art, estate jewelry, vintage automobiles, fine silver, collectibles, antique furniture, and rare maps and books.

To learn more about Ahlers & Ogletree and the firm’s calendar of upcoming events, please visit www.aandoauctions.com. You can also follow Ahlers & Ogletree on social media, at Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

About Ahlers & Ogletree:
Ahlers & Ogletree is always seeking quality consignments for future auctions, especially Modern art, Asian arts and artifacts, and luxury jewelry and accessories. To consign a single item, an estate or a collection, call 404-869-2478; or, send an e-mail to consign@AandOauctions.com. To learn more about Ahlers & Ogletree and the firm’s calendar of upcoming events, please visit www.aandoauctions.com. You can also follow Ahlers & Ogletree on social media, at Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Media Contact:
Jamia Berry
Ahlers & Ogletree
1788 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd.
Atlanta, GA 30318 USA
404-869-24278
jamia@aandoauctions.com
http://www.aandoauctions.com

Will The Stone industry be Rocked by The New Thinstone Handbook from Southwest Stone?

Tulsa, OK, March 22, 2025 --
For generations the Cox family has been well known for everything involving hardscape, thin stone, masonry, and everything building stone related via there strong ties to the construction and masonry community in Tulsa Oklahoma, especially via there family business Southwest Stone which is one of the most popular wholesale hardscape suppliers in Tulsa.

Adam Cox of the cox family said he is excited about the new book, with input from Jacob Cox, Justin Cox, Eddie Cox and the entire cox family. 

The book is "The Thin Stone Handbook" it’s currently for sale on Amazon has great reviews and available to read for free on kindle, via kindle unlimited. 

The Thin Stone Handbook covers everything anyone ends to know about thin stone veneer. Including finding the right thin stone, installing thin stone, how to pick out the right thin stone, how to pick the best thin stone contractors and the book also has lots of pictures of all the different types of thin stone, says Adam Cox at Southwest stone in Tulsa. 

"This book pairs perfect with our quarry direct pricing on thinstone and building stone". Says Eddie Cox of SWSstone.com

You can find out more about Southwest stone at www.SWStone.com or buy the book on Amazon here https://www.amazon.com/Thin-Stone-Veener-Handbook-SWStone-com/dp/B0DVC6WJBH

Media Contact:
Southwest Stone
11351 east 36th street north 
Tulsa, OK, 74141
918-438-3777
adam@swstone.com
http://www.swstone.com

Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Tiny Planet Founders Embark on A Round-The-World Expedition to Redefine Off-Grid Living

Sacramento, CA, March 19, 2025 -- Tiny Planet, a leader in the luxury off-road van conversion industry, is taking its vision global. Founders Denis and Sofia, along with their toddler Amelia, are setting out on an extraordinary round-the-world journey in one of their signature high-tech Mercedes Sprinter vans—redefining the very concept of mobile luxury and exploration.

This May, they are leaving behind the familiar and diving headfirst into an epic, globe-spanning adventure. The family will set off from Los Angeles, weaving through Utah’s fiery red rock canyons and Colorado’s towering peaks before racing toward the East Coast. From there, their van will cross the Atlantic, launching them into the heart of Europe, where they’ll immerse themselves in the vibrant cultures of Spain, France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Poland. But the real test begins beyond the well-trodden paths:

- The Russian Taiga, where relentless isolation will push both their van—and their resilience—to the edge.
- The Mongolian Steppe, where they’ll ride alongside nomadic herders beneath endless skies.
- The Old Silk Road, where ancient trade routes, rugged trails, and unpredictable border crossings will turn the journey into a true expedition.

"We’re Not Just Traveling – We’re Exploring the Future of Living"

“The future is unpredictable. None of us truly know what conditions or circumstances we may face in the coming years. Climate change, resource shortages, economic shifts—our way of life could change in an instant. What if, one day, we are forced to leave our homes, our cities, or even our planet? Perhaps humanity will have to colonize Mars or adapt to extreme conditions here on Earth. This overland expedition is not just about adventure—it’s about exploring how we can live independently, sustainably, and resiliently, no matter where the future takes us," - says Denis, founder of Tiny Planet.

The mission of the Tiny Planet Round-the-World Expedition is to explore and showcase a new way of life—one that is free from urban infrastructure, fully autonomous, and seamlessly connected with nature.

We are not just travelers; we are explorers of the future of housing. From high-tech van life in the U.S. to the ancient nomadic traditions of Mongolia, we are studying how people live across the world to develop new standards of freedom and conscious travel,” says Sofia, co-founder of Tiny Planet. “Along the way, we will meet like-minded individuals who have chosen alternative lifestyles—those living in tiny houses, huts, yurts, and RVs. People who have dared to break free from conventional living, embracing independence and self-sufficiency. Their stories will inspire a global audience to rethink what’s possible and explore new ways of living beyond traditional boundaries.”

Tiny Planet’s cutting-edge expedition van is designed for full-time living and the harshest travel conditions. It features: a powerful off-grid electrical system with solar charging; a state-of-the-art hydronic heating system with heated floors, a 12V air conditioner for energy-efficient cooling; a smart home system for seamless automation; a full kitchen with an induction cooktop, dishwasher and fridge; a spa-like indoor hot shower; Japandi interior design blending minimalist aesthetics with functional luxury.

Tiny Planet proves that leaving your house doesn’t mean leaving your comfort behind. With their innovative van design, you can take the luxuries of a five-star hotel wherever you go. Ultimate freedom no longer requires compromise.

Follow the Journey

Throughout their adventure, Denis and Sofia will document their experiences, offering real-world insights into off-grid living, van life, and cultural exploration. Their journey will be shared through video content in their social media.

Join us on this groundbreaking journey! Follow our adventures on [social media platform] for real-time updates, insights on off-grid living, and a closer look at the future of mobile luxury.

Official start

Tiny Planet is officially launching its much-anticipated Round-the-World Expedition from the Adventure Van Expo in Ventura, California, on May 10-11, 2025.

At the Expo, Denis and Sofia, co-founders of Tiny Planet, will unveil their high-tech, luxury Mercedes Sprinter expedition van—a fully autonomous mobile home that will carry them and their 1-year-old daughter Amelia across 30,000 miles, spanning three continents and some of the most remote terrain on Earth.

The Ventura event will not only be the public’s first look at the van, but also the official send-off celebration for the family’s global journey. Visitors, journalists, and fellow van enthusiasts are invited to step inside the van, meet the family, and experience firsthand the innovative design and technology that makes full-time, off-grid family living possible.

Media Contact:
Elena Shepherd
Tiny Planet
marketing@tinyplanet.group
https://tinyplanet.group

Sunday, March 16, 2025

Miller & Miller's Online-Only Auction, March 29th, Features Sporting Art, Cartridge Boards, Canadian Decoys, Ammo Boxes

New Hamburg, Ontario, Canada, March 16, 2025 -- An online-only Firearms & Sporting Auction, featuring the diverse and long-time collections of Wayne G. Connor and Robert Warwick, along with many outstanding individual consignments, is planned for Saturday, March 29th, by Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd., starting promptly at 9am Eastern time. In all, 211 lots will be offered. 

The catalog is packed with early and rare firearms art and advertising, store displays, factory cartridge boards, fine Winchester rifles and shotguns, Colt percussion revolvers, flintlocks, Smith & Wesson cartridge revolvers, North American trade muskets, magnificent decoys, factory reloading tools, scarce ammunition boxes, and a sprinkling of iconic military rifles. 

Individual lots expected to do well include late 19th century Winchester cartridge display boards; an original watercolor hunting painting by John Joseph Barsotti (American, b. 1914); an Upper Canada Militia Colt 1851 London Navy percussion revolver; a New Haven Arms .44 caliber rimfire ammo box; and a circa 1891 Smith & Wesson factory engraved revolver. 

“This exciting and diverse sale featuring advertising, Canadian decoys, collectible ammunition, sporting, military, and antique firearms will appeal to both seasoned and new collectors alike,” said Paul Matheson, Miller & Miller’s Consignment Director for the auction. 

Mr. Matheson added, “Highlights include high condition antique Smith & Wessons, historic Canadian indigenous trade rifles, a Turnbull restored Winchester low wall 15-inch trapper, a wide array of Colt revolvers including two Upper Canada Militia 1851s and an 1860s Richards conversion, a William Marston (Toronto) heavy barrel target percussion rifle, and much more.” 

Lot #181 is an American circa 1897 Winchester Double “W” cartridge display board No. 291, an oak framed lithographed backboard displaying dummy inert samples of all the pistol and rifle cartridges and shotgun shells then being produced in the firm’s New Haven, Conn. factory. The 40 inch by 57 ½ inch board is in very good condition with strong colors (est. $35,000-$45,000). 

All estimates quoted in this report are in Canadian dollars.

Lot #182 is a Winchester circa 1888 inverted “V” cartridge display board, slightly altered from the 1886 introduced version by the addition of two additional rifle cartridges, the .38-56 WCF added on the left side above a primer tin and the .40-60 WCF added on the right side, above a primer tin. The board is housed in a 32 ¼ inch by 42 ¾ inch oak frame (est. $25,000-$40,000).

Lot #55 is the framed watercolor painting by the Columbus, Ohio artist, curator, historian and antique gun collector, John Joseph Barsotti. Titled The Hide Hunters, the 1959 work depicts hunters with heavy caliber Sharps single shot rifles shooting American buffalo for their hides in North Dakota. Beside the hunter lies his Winchester Model 1866 carbine (est. $22,000-$38,000). 

Lot #170 is the rare, circa 1856 Upper Canada Militia Colt Second Model 1851 London Navy percussion revolver, serial no. 34570, .36 caliber, with a 7 ½ inch octagonal barrel and holster. This is a much higher, original condition, Upper Canada Colt than most limited surviving ones and rarer, too, due to having been issued to a small number militia unit (est. $13,000-$19,000). 

Lot #51 is a circa 1863-1865 New Haven Arms .44 caliber rimfire ammunition box for the Henry rifle. The 2-piece cardboard box with light green paper top label, black lettering and border scroll contains 50 copper case rim fire cartridges with raised headstamp in a dished circle and loaded with 26 grains of black powder and a 216-grain flat-nose lead bullet (est. $12,000-$18,000). 

Note to bidders: For lot #51, and other lots throughout the sale, a valid PAL is required for purchase. 

Lot # 59 is a Winchester Custom Shop (Custom Grade) Model 21 SXS double-barrel 20-gauge shotgun, serial no. 30884, with 26-inch barrels chambered for 2 and ¾ inch shells. The shotgun was manufactured in 1967 for a customer. After the cessation of the Model 21 factory production in 1959, only around 1,000 were made in three grades, from 1960-1991 (est. $12,000-$15,000). 

Lot # 152 is a circa 1891 American Smith & Wesson factory engraved, new model revolver in 44 S&W Russian caliber. The weapon has matching serial numbers on the butt, cylinder, barrel rib extension and barrel latch. It’s mechanically sound, and has bright case colors, near-perfect grips and comes with a factory letter confirming the ship date of Dec. 8, 1891 (est. $12,000-$15,000). 

Lot #66 is a circa 1903 Deluxe Winchester Model 1885 high wall special sporting / target rifle, serial no. 82375, in .32-40 caliber with post-production mounted Winchester Model A5 telescopic sight and No. 3 weight, and a 30-inch octagonal and round barrel, 29 inches long. A factory letter confirms the warehouse shipped it on October 6, 1903 (est. $9,000-$15,000). 

This is an online-only auction. There will be no in-person event to attend, but bidders can tune in to the live webcast on March 29th to watch the lots close in real time. 

Here is a link to the March 29th Firearms & Sporting Auction on the Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. website: https://live.millerandmillerauctions.com/auctions/4-G331GU/firearms-sporting-featuring-the-g-wayne-connor-collection 

Miller & Miller Auctions’ calendar of upcoming online-only auctions includes the following: 

- April 12: East Coast Canadiana & Folk Art, featuring the Chris Huntington collection.

- May 3: Pop Culture – Comics, Toys and Music Memorabilia 

To learn more about Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. and the Firearms & Sporting Auction planned for Saturday, March 29th, please visit www.MillerandMillerAuctions.com. Updates are posted frequently.

About Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd.:
Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. is Canada’s trusted seller of high-value collections and is always accepting quality consignments. The firm specializes in watches and jewelry, art, antiques and high-value collectibles. Its mission is to provide collectors with a trusted place to buy and sell. To consign a single piece, an estate or a collection, you may call them at (519) 573-3710; or, you can e-mail them at info@millerandmillerauctions.com. To learn more about Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd., please visit www.MillerandMillerAuctions.com. Updates are posted frequently.

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Samuel Beckett's Groundbreaking Play "Waiting for Godot" Arrives in Kingston, MA, This April

Kingston, MA, March 13, 2025 -- Celebrating its 25th season, True Repertory Theatre will bring Samuel Beckett’s groundbreaking play “Waiting for Godot” to life this April. Performances will be held at the Beal House, 222 Main St. in Kingston with evening performance on April 4, 5, 11 at 8PM and matinees on April 6, 12, 13 at 3PM.

Tickets are $25 general admission and $22 for seniors and students. Group discounts of $20 a ticket for 10 or more available upon request. Tickets can be purchased online or at the performance. Online purchases can be made at TrueRepTheatre.com.

“We chose Waiting for Godot because now, more than ever, this feels like the right work at the right time,” said Donald Sheehan, who serves as the Artistic Director of True Rep.

The play is about two people living in a chaotic world who struggle to hold onto hope, who have invested in someone they know nothing about, Godot, to deliver their future. As they wait, they entertain one another, debate their existence, test their resilience, and provide unexpected humor, wisdom, and hope.

“The challenge of this play, for the actor, is to be completely honest and open — only then do we, as an audience, begin to recognize ourselves in these relationships,” remarked director, Victoria Bond. “Hopefully, people will not only recognize themselves, but one another, as well.” 

As the author of the play Samuel Beckett said, “What are we doing here, that is the question. And we are blessed in this, that we happen to know the answer. Yes, in the immense confusion one thing alone is clear. We are waiting for Godot to come.”

Directed by Victoria Bond of Plymouth this modern production stars Mark Reed of Hull as Estragon, Donald Sheehan of Pembroke as Vladimir, Ryan Guimares of Pembroke as Pozzo, Stephen Lee of Randolph as Lucky, and Robby Silenzi of Halifax as the Boy.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit TrueRepTheatre.com.

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

From Harry's Birthday to Patrick’s Day: Get Lucky with A High-Caliber Virtual Assistant for Just $300/Month!

Pennsylvania, March 11, 2025 --
Beyond Business Virtual Assistants (BBVA) is celebrating a special occasion with a game-changing offer! From March 9th, the birthday of our Chief Operating Officer Harryson Bayta, through St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th at 11:59 PM EST, business owners can secure a top-tier Virtual Assistant for just $300 per month. This limited-time deal is designed to help entrepreneurs streamline operations, increase efficiency, and scale their businesses without the stress of hiring.

“At Beyond Business Virtual Assistants, we believe that business owners need more than just extra hands—they need skilled professionals who can drive growth,” said Harryson Bayta, COO of Beyond Business Virtual Assistants. “This exclusive offer is our way of celebrating while giving businesses access to expert virtual support at an unbeatable price.”

Why This Offer Stands Out
- Top-Tier Virtual Assistants – Pre-vetted, highly skilled professionals tailored to your business needs.
-​ Hassle-Free Recruitment – We handle sourcing, interviews, and onboarding.
-​ Cost-Effective Hiring – Secure expert support at a fraction of in-house hiring costs.
-​ More Time for Growth – Focus on scaling your business while we take care of the hiring process.

A Smarter Hiring Solution for Business Owners
Finding and hiring the right virtual assistant can be time-consuming and costly. BBVA eliminates these challenges by delivering dedicated, high-caliber VAs through a structured recruitment process. Our team ensures each VA is pre-screened, trained, and ready to contribute to business success from day one.

With a professional VA managing administrative tasks, marketing, customer communication, and more, business owners can focus on higher-level strategies and revenue-generating activities.

Proven Success from Our Clients
BBVA has helped countless business owners optimize their operations. One fast-growing e-commerce brand reported a 40% increase in productivity and a 25% reduction in operational costs after hiring a VA through our service.

Another client shared:
“Hiring a VA from Beyond Business was one of the best decisions I made. My daily workload is lighter, my operations are smoother, and I can finally focus on growing my business.”

About Beyond Business Virtual Assistants:
Beyond Business Virtual Assistants is a trusted provider of high-quality virtual assistants, specializing in business support, administrative assistance, and marketing. Our mission is to help professionals scale their businesses efficiently by providing expert virtual support.

Limited-Time Offer – From Harry’s Birthday to Patrick’s Day, Get Lucky with a Deal That Pays – Act Now!

This exclusive promotion is available only from March 9th to March 17th at 11:59 PM EST. Don’t miss your chance to elevate your business with a dedicated virtual assistant at an unbeatable price!

How to Claim This Offer – From Harry’s Birthday to Patrick’s Day, Get Lucky with a Deal That Pays
To secure this limited-time deal, contact Beyond Business Virtual Assistants today. Let us help you take your business to new heights with expert virtual support!

Saturday, March 8, 2025

1881 Newspaper Account of The Gunfight at The OK Corral Fetches $5,000 at Holabird's Pioneers & Patriots Auction in Reno

Reno, NV, March 08, 2025 -- An original newspaper account of the gunfight at the OK Corral from 1881 sold for $5,000, and an 1876-CC (Carson City) U.S. Liberty Head $20 gold piece gaveled for $4,518 in three days of auctions titled Pioneers & Patriots held March 1st thru 3rd by Holabird Western Americana Collections, LLC. The first two days were held online and live in the Reno gallery.

Day 3 – March 3rd – was a timed-only session, with no live gallery bidding. Around 1,700 lots came up for bid across the three days, in categories that include Americana, militaria, mining, numismatics, Wild West, philatelic and more. Online bidding was provided by iCollector.com, LiveAuctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Telephone and absentee bids were also accepted.

“We chose the name ‘Pioneers & Patriots’ to honor notable Western figures such as lawmen, outlaws, generals and presidents, as well as military figures from conflicts such as the Civil War, World Wars I and II, the Mexican Revolution and the French Revolution,” said Fred Holabird, president and owner of Holabird Western Americana Collections. “The sale was a huge success.”

The account of the gunfight at the OK Corral in the town of Tombstone in the Arizona Territory was chronicled in the copy of the Tombstone Daily Nugget dated Nov. 24, 1881. The gunfight pitted lawmen (including Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday) against members of a group of cattle rustlers and horse thieves. It lasted less than a minute but is still a major part of Wild West lore.

The 1876-CC U.S. Liberty Head $20 gold piece was rare, one of just 138,441 minted in Carson City. It was in Fine-Very Fine condition, a ding above Liberty’s ear its only noticeable blemish. Other top-selling lots from the numismatics category included the following:

- A 1934 $1,000 Federal Reserve Note (Fr 2211-L), produced in San Francisco and having the signatures of Julian and Morgenthau. The bill, one of 90,600 printed, showed a vignette of former US President Grover Cleveland and was in VF-EF condition ($2,750).

- A three-album collection of Morgan silver dollars, 56 coins in all, contained in blue Whitman albums, in dates ranging from 1878-1886, mostly in VG-EF condition. There were lower-grade San Francisco coins in the group, but none from Carson City ($2,125).

- An 1891-CC Morgan silver dollar in About Uncirculated condition, one of 1,618,000 struck and boasting nice luster, with no bag marks ($1,000).

Following are additional highlights from the auction. All prices quoted include the buyer’s premium.

Day 1 contained over 500 lots dedicated to general Americana; minerals (including gold and turquoise) and mining; and stock certificates. Top lots included 21.4 grams of placer gold nuggets weighing a total of 0.686 troy oz., from a volcano claim in an ancient stream bed above Goler Wash in the El Paso mountains near Death Valley, Calif. ($2,125); and a group of nuggets of turquoise, a mix of cut and hand-cut, hand selected for color, weighing 5.4 pounds ($1,125).

Antique stock and bond certificates proved to be popular with bidders. A few examples are as follows:

- A United States Centennial International Exhibition (Philadelphia, Pa.) stock certificate, issued to The Dairymen Association for 50 shares at $10 per, dated October 30, 1876 and signed by treasurer Fred Fraley and president John Welsh, in nice condition ($2,125).

- A rare Combination Gold & Silver Mining Company (Inyo County, Calif.) stock certificate printed in red with yellow background, issued to B.F. Whiten for 40 shares on Jun 26, 1862, signed by James T Jones as president, CS Higgins secretary ($1,062).

- An uncanceled bond signed by Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, for $500, issued in 1866 while the general, revolutionist, president and dictator (who enjoyed successes in Texas and the Alamo) was living in New York City in exile, where he died in poverty ($1,000).

A hard-to-find complete set of 12 different postcards by Alberto Martini, each one of them signed by the artist famous for illustrating famous literary works, including producing 132 ink illustrations described as "macabre" for the stories of Edgar Allan Poe, commanded $1,500.

A circa 1950 Mills Bell-O-Matic three-reel nickel slot machine in a bright red metal case, wooden sided, with "A C E" in clubs the jackpot, 26 inches tall by 16 inches wide, with two keys but no cash box and typed instructions to the owner inside the back cover, commanded $1,312.

A 1908 Fletcher, Oklahoma receipt for $26.16 from the outlaw Frank James of James Gang fame, plus a letter penned in 1875 on American Express letterhead by William A. Redfield, the private detective assigned to track down and ultimately capture the James Gang, reached $1,187.

Other noteworthy lots included a collection of six folding knives, all of them unmarked as to the manufacturers, one made in Italy with back scales and a lock-back action and one burnished bone folder that walks and talks ($2,125); and a large vintage turquoise bolo, purchased in New Mexico about 50 years ago, very attractive, with two .75-inch stones on the bottom ($1,187).

Anyone owning a collection that might fit into a Holabird Western Americana Collections auction is encouraged to get in touch. The company has agents all over America and will travel to inspect most worthy collections.

To consign a single piece or a collection, you may call Fred Holabird at 775-851-1859 or 844-492-2766; or, send an e-mail to fredholabird@gmail.com. Holabird Western Americana Collections is actively seeking quality consignments for its upcoming auctions, especially items in the following categories:

- Coins, ingots, currency, tokens, US Mint

- Minerals, gold nuggets, ore specimens

- Railroadiana (passes, lanterns, locks)

- Bottles and brewing, salon collectibles

- Mining artifacts and ephemera

- Rare documents (checks, billheads, stocks, maps)

- Native Americana

- Wild West outlaws and lawmen

- Firearms and militaria

To learn more about Holabird Western Americana Collections, LLFC and their calendar of upcoming auction events, please visit www.holabirdamericana.com.

About Holabird Western Americana Collections, LLC:
Anyone owning a collection that might fit into a Holabird Western Americana Collections auction is encouraged to get in touch. The company has agents all over America and will travel to inspect most worthy collections. To consign a single piece or a collection, you may call Fred Holabird at 775-851-1859 or 844-492-2766; or, send an e-mail to fredholabird@gmail.com. To learn more about Holabird Western Americana Collections, LLFC and their calendar of upcoming auction events, please visit www.holabirdamericana.com. 

Qryptonic Issues "Quantum Storm Strikes Florida" Report: $30B Impact Looms

Miami, FL, March 8, 2025 --
Qryptonic, a global leader in post-quantum cybersecurity, has unveiled its new Quantum Storm Strikes Florida report, warning that Florida’s $1 trillion economy could face a $30 billion annual hit by 2028. As quantum computing advances, high-performance computing (HPC) synergy may compromise classical encryption sooner than 2035, leaving critical sectors—finance, healthcare, defense, and beyond—dangerously exposed.

Qryptonic's 2024 survey of 150 Florida firms found that 99% are unprepared for post-quantum cryptography (PQC). This leaves Miami’s banks, Orlando’s tourism leaders, and hospitals across the state vulnerable to “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks.

“FLORIDA MUST STRENGTHEN ITS CYBERSECURITY NOW TO STAY AHEAD OF EMERGING THREATS,” said Jeremy Rodgers, Florida’s State CISO, in 2024, echoing Qryptonic’s urgent call to action.

KEY FINDINGS & IMPLICATIONS
    - $30B Crisis for Florida
       Tourism ($10B): Booking systems at risk
       Finance ($8B): M&A files exposed
       Healthcare ($5B): Patient data leaks
       Defense ($4B): NASA and defense intel vulnerable
       Agriculture ($3B): Agritech hijacking

    - 99% Unprepared for PQC
Qryptonic’s survey shows nearly all firms lack quantum-safe encryption, creating a “harvest now, decrypt later” backlog of sensitive data.

    - Potential Quantum Decryption Timeline
Some experts warn HPC-driven quantum computers could compromise RSA and ECC within a decade, demanding immediate risk assessments.

WHY POST-QUANTUM SECURITY IS A FLORIDA IMPERATIVE
    - Regulatory Pressure – Government bodies like NIST and agencies nationwide are advancing PQC mandates. Florida businesses risk non-compliance and heavy penalties.
    - Skyrocketing Cyber Threats – Longer-term sensitive data is especially exposed, as adversaries can intercept and decrypt it later.
    - Economic Fallout – A $30B annual impact by 2028 underscores the high stakes for tourism, finance, and healthcare—Florida’s economic pillars.

QRYPTONIC’S 3C MODEL & PROVEN RESULTS
Qryptonic combats quantum threats with its 3C Model—Compliance, Cost, and Continuity—ensuring organizations meet emerging PQC standards while minimizing financial and operational disruptions.

    - Hospital Cuts PQC Costs by 20%
A Miami hospital reduced deployment costs from $2M to $1.6M, with near-zero downtime.
    - Operational Continuity
Our phased approach helps businesses stay online while upgrading legacy encryption, turning HPC into an asset rather than a liability.
    - Future-Proof Compliance
The 3C Model aligns with new laws and mandates, including Qryptonic’s call for a Florida Quantum Security Act.

“WE’RE LOCKING OUT TOMORROW’S HACKERS TODAY,”
said Jessica Gold, Head of PR & Media Relations at Qryptonic.
“ACT NOW, OR FLORIDA PAYS BILLIONS LATER.”

HOW TO SECURE YOUR FUTURE
    1. FREE 15-MINUTE AUDIT
Call (954) 694-2300 or email jessica.gold@qryptonic.com (limited spots available).
    2. DOWNLOAD THE REPORT
Access the Quantum Storm Strikes Florida report at https://www.qryptonic.com/contact.
    3. BOOK A 3C DEMO
See our PQC model in action—schedule by March 31.

Media & Business Inquiries:
Jessica Gold, Head of PR & Media Relations
Qryptonic LLC
Phone: (954) 694-2300
Email: jessica.gold@qryptonic.com
Website: https://www.qryptonic.com/contact

- Request a Live Demo of Qryptonic’s 3C Model
- Schedule a Personalized Post-Quantum Risk Assessment
- Join an Exclusive Webinar on Florida’s quantum security strategies

About Qryptonic:
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Thursday, March 6, 2025

Indian Motorcycles Neon Dealership Sign from The 1930s or '40s Soars to $112,100 (Canadian) at Miller & Miller Auctions

New Hamburg, ON, Canada, March 6, 2025 -- An Indian Motorcycles neon dealership sign, made in America in the 1930s or ‘40s, climbed to $112,100, a Texaco Marine Motor Oil double-sided porcelain sign from 1953 achieved $21,240, and a Canadian single-sided metal door push bar for Stubby Beverages hit $6,490 in auctions held Feb. 28-March 2 by Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd.

All prices are in Canadian dollars and include an 18 percent buyer’s premium. All three days of auctions were online-only, with Internet bidding on LiveAuctioneers.com as well as the Miller & Miller website (MillerandMillerAuctions.com). Telephone and absentee bids were also accepted.

Things got going on February 28th, with a Soda Advertising & Push Bars auction, nicknamed ‘When push comes to shove’. It was a high-grade, fresh-to-market offering of over 100 push bars, door pushes and soda advertising. Most of the push bars came from the same 50-year collection. It included examples from Stubby, Co-op, Peer’s, Cloverdale and Lyons’ Tea.

Many of the higher-ticket items came up for bid on March 1st and 2nd, during the Petroliana & Advertising auction – nearly 600 lots in total. Saturday was called ‘a Bud thing’ because it contained the exclusive collection of the late Arthur ‘Bud’ Irving. Sunday featured petroliana, soda and county store advertising. Many items had been held by private collectors for decades.

“Texaco and Irving collectors rose to the occasion to grab a piece from Bud’s vast collection,” said Ethan Miller of Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. “High-grade racks and pumps were bringing spectacular numbers - and as always, porcelain was king. Sunday’s sale of premier advertising resulted in some record highs in soda and petroliana. The upper limits for signs grading 9 and above seem limitless. We saw spirited bidding all day.”

The overall expected top lot of the three days was the Indian Motorcycles neon dealership sign, and it did not disappoint. It was a stunning piece of motorcycle and advertising history and it breezed past the $50,000-$60,000 pre-sale estimate to top six figures. Graded 8.25 out of 10 for condition and impressive at 66 ½ inches by 35 ½ inches, the sign boasted strong color and gloss.

The detailed nautical scene in the Texaco Marine Motor Oil double-sided porcelain sign, made in America in 1953, put the sign among the most desirable and highly sought after of all the Texaco signs. Graded 9.09/9.25 in excellent condition and measuring 11 inches by 21 ½ inches, the sign was expected to hit $20,000-$25,000 and a lucky bidder scored it for just above the low estimate.

The 3 inch by 32 ¼ inch Stubby Beverages single-sided metal door push bar, made in Canada in the 1950s, the orange script version and marked “WS 208” lower right, came into the sale with a modest $800-$1,000 estimate, but bidders took note of its 8.5 grade and eye-catching graphics.

Following are additional highlights from the auction, which grossed $1,182,006. A total of 977 online bidders placed a combined 18,407 bids. 100 percent of all lots were sold all three days. 46 percent of the top 50 lots exceeded estimate on Day 1; 80 percent of the top 50 lots exceeded estimate on Day 2; and 94 percent of the top 50 lots exceeded estimate on Day 3.

A Canadian 1946 McColl-Frontenac Gasoline Service Station double-sided porcelain sign, round and a monumental six feet in diameter, graded 8.25/8.5 and marked “P&M 46” to the lower edge, sold within estimate for $19,470. The sign had an estimate of $15,000-$20,000. 

Stubby Beverages made the list of top lots twice. In addition to the door push bar on Day 1, a Stubby Orange “Exploding Six-Pack” single-sided tin sign, Canadian, 1950s, 19 ¼ inches by 27 ¼ inches, graded 9.25, gaveled for $15,930 on Day 3, besting the high estimate of $4,000. 

An Irving IOKA Motor Oil bottle rack, made in Canada in the 1930s, consisting of four single-sided porcelain panels, with an overall size of 23 ¾ inches by 19 inches by 20 ½ inches, sold within estimate for $11,800. The rack was in excellent shape and showed great color and gloss. 

A Texaco “New” Motor Oil double-sided tin curb sign, made in America in the 1930s, the cast base embossed with “Property of The Texas Company”, graded 9.25/9.0, went for $11,210. The 30 inch by 30 inch sign, with a repainted frame and base, had a meager $1,800 high estimate.

A rare Canadian 1930s single-sided porcelain convex door push sign for Lyons’ Tea, graded well at 9.25 and exhibiting wonderful color and gloss, with all the original grommets intact on the 10 inch by 3 inch door push sign, had a pre-sale estimate of $2,000-$2,500 but finished at $3,835.

A hard-to-find Co-Op Service Station single-sided metal door push bar (“Where membership is open to all”), made in Canada in the 1960s, 3 ½ inches by 29 ¼ inches, graded 9, made $2,950.

With the Feb. 28-March 2 auctions officially in the books, Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. has a full slate of other upcoming online-only auctions, to include the following:

- March 29: Firearms & Sporting, featuring the G. Wayne Connor collection

- April 12: East Coast Canadiana & Folk Art, featuring the Chris Huntington collection.

- May 3: Pop Culture – Comics, Toys and Music Memorabilia

- June 5: Luxury Watches

To learn more about Miller & Miller Auctions and the firm’s calendar of upcoming auctions, visit www.MillerandMillerAuctions.com.

About Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd.:
Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. is Canada’s trusted seller of high-value collections and is always accepting quality consignments. The firm specializes in watches and jewelry, art, antiques and high-value collectibles. Its mission is to provide collectors with a trusted place to buy and sell. To consign a single piece, an estate or a collection, you may call them at (519) 573-3710; or, you can e-mail them at info@millerandmillerauctions.com. To learn more about Miller & Miller Auctions and their calendar of upcoming auctions, visit www.MillerandMillerAuctions.com.

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

A Spectacular Sterling Flatware Service Once Owned by Author Anne Rice will be Auctioned March 25th by SJ Auctioneers

Brooklyn, NY, USA, March 4, 2025 -- Dazzling jewelry pieces and a spectacular 280-piece Gorham sterling silver flatware service for 12 in the Paris pattern previously owned by the renowned author Anne Rice (1941-2021) are the expected headliners in a 225-lot, online only Fabulous Collectibles, Décor, Silverware & Jewels auction scheduled for Tuesday, March 25th, by SJ Auctioneers.

The auction will begin promptly at 6pm Eastern time. In addition to sterling silver and fine jewelry, the auction will also feature vintage toys and toy trains, pens and mechanical pencils, Disney collectibles and lovely decorative accessories. Bidders can browse the catalog online at https://www.liveauctioneers.com/catalog/363523_fabulous-collectibles-decor-silverware-jewels/

The Gorham flatware service carries a well-deserved pre-sale estimate of $16,000-$20,000. “Anne Rice’s passion for silver evolved into preserving fine old vintage sterling services and kept them intact,” said Erica Anderson of SJ Auctioneers, adding, “This is one of her finest examples.” The 280 pieces include 28 major serving pieces, all with the original monogram.

In addition to Gorham, the auction features items by many famous name designers and makers, such as Tiffany & Co., Gucci, Cartier, Buccellati, Montblanc, Herend, Kirk, Lionel, Swarovski, S.T. Dupont, Georg Jensen, Millefiori, Handel, Louis Marx, Christian Louboutin, K. Uyeda, Orrefors, Yonezawa, Ingersoll, Faberge, Loet Vanderveen, Baccarat, Whiting and many others.

The jewelry category will be led by a Buccellati 18k gold Macri band with diamonds weighing a total 0.30 carats, size 6 ¼ (est. $4,800-$5,500); a pair of diamond and chalcedony with coral white gold earrings, the diamonds totaling 0.50 carats (est. $1,800-$2,000); and a pair of emerald diamond cut natural diamond stud earrings weighing a total of 2.25 carats (est. $5,000-$6,500).

Also sold will be two natural diamond tennis bracelets, both weighing 3.50 carats and set in 14k gold (each est. $4,500-$6,500); a Gucci signed sterling silver cuff bracelet with Gucci logo (est. $650-$700); Gucci sterling silver and malachite cufflinks with original box (est. $500-$750); and a Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti 18k gold bean pendant Paloma Picasso chain (est. $500-$650).

Returning to sterling silver, just a few of the fine offerings in the auction include these:

- A Gorham sterling silver Chantilly boat with under plate, weighing a total 19 troy ounces and the tray measuring about 8 ½ inches by 6 ½ inches (est. $1,900-$2,600).

- A set of six Gianmaria Buccellati sterling silver 925 vine leaf dish tray bowls, each one measuring about 3 1/8 inches wide (est. $2,000-$2,400).

- A pair of Kirk repousse 402F sterling silver goblets together totaling 16.4 troy ounces and each one about 6 ½ inches in height (est. $2,200-$2,500).

- A Tiffany & Company sterling silver porringer bowl, marked on the underside of the handle “Tiffany Makers Sterling 23365”, 4 ½ inches long over the handle (est. $250-$350).

Disney items are hugely popular with collectors. The auction features a Disney Mickey Mouse Circus Pride Lines train set (#1536, NIB MZ794, O Gauge), new in the box in mint condition and never run (est. $500-$600); and an adorable sparkling Swarovski signed Arribas Minnie Mouse limited edition figure in the original box, standing about 2 ½ inches tall (est. $200-$250). 

Toy trains are just as hot a collectible. Up for bid will be a nice, clean Lionel pre-World War II O Gauge passenger set with the original box (#294, Olive 252 with 529 529 530 cars), the loco runs and goes in reverse (est. $400-$500); and a Lionel pre-war train set with the original box, a Lionel Jr. O Gauge 1054 freight set, and the engine runs and goes into reverse (est. $200-$250).

Gorgeous vintage pens make wonderful and thoughtful gifts. Up for bid will be a French-made S.T. Dupont ball point pen that writes in black ink, gold-plated, with 13 ruby gems and 12 diamonds on clip, with the original box (est. $600-$800); and a Montblanc Classic three-piece mechanical pencil / ballpoint pen / fountain pen set, accented in 14k gold 585 (est. 450-$600).

Decorative accessories will be served up in abundance. Just a few examples are as follows:

- A Tiffany favrile signed glass tadpole vase nearly 8 ½ inches tall (est. $1,600-$2,200).

- A Herend signed porcelain pink fishnet bear figurine made in Hungary, with 24k accents (est. $300-$400).

- A colorful pair of Millefiori egg-shaped paperweights, each one 2 ¾ inches tall (est. $150-$2,500).

- A rare Handel Teroma signed scenic vase in excellent condition, 8 ½ inches tall (est. $850-$1,200). 

Bidding is available online at LiveAuctioneers.com. Pre-bidding is also available, so for those who are unable to attend the online auction, they can still leave their bids now. 

SJ Auctioneers prides itself on offering its customers great service and fast shipping, unlike some other auction houses where people need to arrange their own shipping.

To learn more about SJ Auctioneers and the 225-lot, online only Fabulous Collectibles, Décor, Silverware & Jewels auction scheduled for Tuesday, March 25th, starting at 6pm

Eastern time, please visit www.sjauctioneers.com. Updates are posted frequently.

About SJ Auctioneers:
SJ Auctioneers is always seeking quality items for future auctions. To inquire about consigning an item, an estate or a whole collection, you may call 646-450-7553; or, you can send an email to sjauctioneers@gmail.com. To learn more about SJ Auctioneers please visit www.sjauctioneers.com. Updates are posted frequently.

Stunning Townhome in The Heart of Innovation is Being Sold Privately!

San Jose, CA, Mar 4, 2025 --
A limited opportunity to own a stunning townhome in the heart of Silicon Valley has just become available to be sold off market as a private sale. This beautiful home offers 1,596 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, making it the perfect retreat for growing families or professionals seeking a prime location near top tech hubs like Google, Apple, Meta, HP, Cisco and other well known technology giants.

Spacious, Modern, and Versatile Layout
This exceptional townhome boasts 4 bedrooms, with two bedrooms seamlessly converted into one large, luxurious space—perfect as a grand or master suite, office, or entertainment room. Two full bathrooms, a hallway and master suite bathroom located upstairs are designed for comfort and convenience, while a stylish half-bath is conveniently located downstairs. The traditional floor plan features inviting living and dining areas, creating a warm atmosphere for quality family time, relaxation, or entertaining.

Prime Features and Upgrades:
- 1,596 sq. ft. of living space – Spacious and functional layout
- 4 bedrooms (with a flexible large suite conversion or convert back to original)
- 2.5 bathrooms – Two full baths upstairs, half bath downstairs
- Private backyard – Perfect for BBQs, gardening, or unwinding
- Two-car garage – Secure parking with ample storage space
- Low HOA fees – Affordable living with incredible amenities
- Exclusive community perks – Pool, hot tub, and clubhouse access
- Prime Silicon Valley location – Near major tech campuses, shopping, dining, and top-rated schools.

And unlike many communities, this home is part of a low HOA neighborhood, offering exceptional value while still providing resort-style amenities. Residents enjoy exclusive access to a sparkling pool, relaxing hot tub, and a stylish clubhouse for hosting events or unwinding after a busy day.

Unbeatable Location in the Heart of Silicon Valley
Situated in one of Silicon Valley's most sought-after east San Jose Berryessa neighborhoods, this townhome provides easy access to major highways, top tech companies, and a variety of shopping, dining, and recreational options. Whether you're commuting to a tech giant, exploring local parks or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, everything you need is just minutes away.

This Home Won't be Available Forever
Many of the best homes are bought and sold OFF the market - just like this one. In this low-inventory south bay real estate market, you don't want to miss your chance to own this incredible townhome if you're shopping for a home. Contact Bruno Versaci at 917-709-7324 or by email: burno@brunoversaci.com or just click here to schedule your private viewing today.

Sunday, March 2, 2025

Paintings by Gruppe, Carlson and Chichester, Plus Mid-Century Designer Furniture, are in George Cole's March 8th Auction

Red Hook, NY, USA, March 2, 2025 -- Nearly 500 lots of fresh-to-market antique and estate merchandise, hand-picked from the Hudson Valley region, will come up for bid on Saturday, March 8th, by George Cole Auctions, online and live in the gallery located at 7578 North Broadway in Red Hook, just north of the CVS Drug Store on Route 9 and a quarter-mile north of the Rt. 199/W intersection.

“We’ll be selling Rhinebeck and Saugerties estate contents, along with select others, so folks need to mark their calendars and plan to attend this massive, important auction,” said George Cole of George Cole Auctions. “We invite everyone to join the infamous ‘Cooper Cork Pop’ to kick off the auction promptly at 4 pm. Also, come hungry. Our caterer has many tasty offerings.”

There are five original oil paintings in the sale by Emile Gruppé (1896-1978), the American artist best known for his impressionistic landscapes and Massachusetts coastal and marine renderings. The five include a vibrant signed oil on board seascape signed by Gruppé, framed (est. $5,000-$8,000), and a gorgeous oil on canvas landscape work, also signed by him (est. $3,000-$4,000).

Lot 142 is an oil on canvas landscape painting by the Swedish-born American impressionist painter John F. Carlson (1874-1945). The 16 inch by 20 inch work (canvas, minus the 22 inch by 26 inch frame) is signed by the artist. Carlson was born in Sweden but his family immigrated to the United States in 1884, settling in Buffalo, N.Y. The painting should realize $5,000-$6,000.

One other painting worthy of mention is the oil on canvas shore scene signed by Cecil Chichester (1891-1963), an artist who was active and lived in New York and was best known for his seasonal landscape paintings. He was also an illustrator. The painting in the sale measures 20 inches by 24 inches (minus the 23 inch by 27 inch frame). It carries an estimate of $600-$800.

Prominently featured in the catalog are marvelous examples of Mid-Century designer furniture. These will be led by a nice set of four Christian Liagre dining chairs, made in France for Holly Hunter (est. $6,000-$7,000); a pair of Danish rosewood armchairs with leather upholstery by Anne Vodder, Model 431 (est. $1,800-$2,000); and a 1960s Paul McCobb drop-leaf table by Planar that’s 23 inches wide by 36 inches long, with 17-inch drop leaves (est. $2,000-$2,500).

Lest we forget, lot 144 is a pair of Lane “Tuxedo” Mid-Century walnut one-drawer nightstands with rosewood inlay, 20 inches tall by 26 inches wide (est. $1,000-$1,200). Lot 164 is a French Deco walnut five-drawer oval desk, 48 inches wide by 27 inches deep (est. $1,250-$1,500). And lot 163 is a massive pair of 19th century carved oak corbels, both 5 feet tall (est. $1,500-$1,800).

Early American furniture will feature lot 140, a circa 1820 Hepplewhite French foot cherry slant front desk, 44 inches tall by 47 ½ inches wide by 23 inches deep (est. $800-$1,000). There are nine Mid-Century copper-plated Halophane pendant lights to consider, with pre-sale estimates that should settle in the $1,000-$2,00 range each. A Josephine chandelier by Marian Jamieson, 21 inches in height by 27 inches in diameter, is expected to illuminate the room for $1,200-$1,500.

The rest of the catalog is an eclectic mix of tempting items, to include furniture by Jens Risom (Danish-American, 1916-2016); a Mehlin grand piano; architectural elements; lighting (to include Handel); French bronze; Mission; sterling silver; a collection of professional cameras; a large collection of Waterford; Lladro; Royal Copenhagen; toys and trains; cloisonne; Royal Commemoratives; artworks by Louise M. Kamp, C. Ricciardi and Clare Leighton; and more.

Internet bidding will be facilitated by LiveAuctioneers.com, BidSquare.com and the George Cole Auctions website (www.georgecoleauctions.com).

In-person previews will be held at the George Cole Auctions gallery on Friday, March 7th, from noon to 6 pm; on Saturday, March 8th, from 1-4 pm; on weekdays, Monday thru Friday, from 1-3 pm; or by appointment. All times are Eastern. To schedule an appointment, call 845-758-9114; or, send an email to mailbox@georgecoleauctions.com.

To learn more about George Cole Auctions and the estates auction planned for Saturday, March 8th, please visit www.georgecoleauctions.com. Updates are posted frequently.

About George Cole Auctions:
George Cole Auctions is always seeking quality consignments for future auctions. To inquire about consigning an item, an estate or a collection, you may call 845-758-9114; or, you can send an email to mailbox@georgecoleauctions.com. All inquiries are handled with strict confidence. To learn more about George Cole Auctions please visit www.georgecoleauctions.com. Updates are posted frequently.

Saturday, March 1, 2025

Crescent City's March 21-22 Estates Auction will Feature Artworks by Emile Munier, "Gib" Singleton and Clementine Hunter

New Orleans, LA, USA, Mar 1, 2025 -- An oil on canvas portrait painting by Emile Munier (French, 1840-1895); a pair of bronze sculptures by Gilbert “Gib” Singleton (Mo./N.M., 1936-2014); an Imperial Folio and two hand-colored engravings by John James Audubon (American, 1785-1851); and an oil on canvas board by Clementine Hunter (La., 1887-1988) will all come up for bid in Crescent City Auction Gallery’s Estates Auction slated for March 21-22, live and online.

The sale consists of 755 lots, mostly pulled from prominent estates and collections throughout the South. Featured will be property from a New Orleans gentleman antiquarian and a notable natural history collection, plus many fine items people have come to expect from Crescent City.

The oil painting by Emile Munier is titled Portrait of Colonel Henry Octavius Seixas, New Orleans (1841-1911). Done in 1891, the work is artist signed and dated upper right and measures 36 ¼ inches by 29 inches (minus the giltwood frame). It carries an estimate of $10,000-$20,000.

The bronze statues mounted on wood bases by Gilbert “Gib” Singleton are titled Between the Acts (1984) and Lady with a Bowl (20th century). Both depict tall, thin figures. Between the Acts is 20 ½ inches tall (est. $9,000-$12,000). Lady with a Bowl is 32 inches tall (est. 6,000-$9,000).

Three lots are dedicated to the outstanding work of John James Audubon. They are as follows:

- Lot 491: An Oppenheimer Field Museum Edition of Audubon’s Fifty Best, from The Viviparous Quadrupeds of North America Imperial Folio (1839-1844), featuring 50 color facsimiles on watercolor paper, 1999, after John James Audubon (est. $6,000-$10,000).

- Lot 492: A hand-colored engraving with aquatint of a Black-Billed Cuckoo (No. 7, Pl. 32), from The Birds of America (1827-1838), published in London by Robert Havell (est. $8,000-$12,000).

- Lot 493: A hand-colored engraving with aquatint of a Whip-Poor-Will (With Black Oak) (No. 17, Pl. 82), from The Birds of North America (1827-1838), published in London by Robert Havell (est. $7,000-$10,000).

The oil on canvas board painting titled Wash Day by the renowned African American folk artist Clementine Hunter is a fine representation of her work and is expected to fetch $4,000-$8,000.

It will be an  eclectic sale, with merchandise ranging from an extensive collection of Wedgwood (lot 376 consists of three pieces of encaustic Wedgwood basalt and terracotta vases, estimated at $900-$1,200); a selection of fine watches (including lots 444 and 443, Rolex and Officine Panerai Radiomir men’s watches); a fine selection of small bronze sculptures; and an equally fine selection of jewelry items (ones that feature diamonds, emeralds, rubies, sapphires and more).

It wouldn’t be a Crescent City auction without something to do with the New Orleans tradition of Mardi Gras. Lot 704 is a chromolithograph on paper Mardi Gras parade bulletin Rex from 1917, titled The Gifts of the Gods to Louisiana (est. $600-$1,200). Lot 712 consists of two Mardi Gras Ball Favor Brochures, titled Mistick Krewe of Comus, from 1897 and 1898 (est. $500-$1,000).

Louisiana artists will be represented by Alexander John Drysdale (1870-1934), whose oil on wash board painting titled Bayou Scene with Live Oak and Pirogue is expected to finish at $1,200-$1,800; and Robert Rucker (1931-2002), whose watercolor and gouache on paper titled Circle Gallery, French Quarter, has a modest estimate of $600-$900.

Artists from other countries will also be featured. A few examples are as follows:

- Lot 497, an oil on canvas by Marcel Dyf (French, 1899-1985), titled Bouquet of Flowers, signed lower right (est. $4,000-$6,000).

- Lot 548, an oil on panel by Knute (Sven August) Heldner (Swedish/American/La., 1886-1952), titled Horse Rider at Malus-Beauregard House (Chalmette Battlefield) (est. $2,500-$3,500).

- Lot 542, an oil on panel by Niek Van Der Plas (Dutch, b. 1954), titled Second Line Down the French Quarter (est. $2,000-$3,000).

The furniture category should pique bidder interest, with offerings that include a 6-piece, early 20th century French Art Nouveau inlaid walnut bedroom suite, featuring an armoire, a bed, two nightstands and two chairs (est. $1,500-$2,500); a 19th century English Victorian marble-top carved mahogany sideboard (est. $700-$1,200); and a pair of 20th century Art Deco style armchairs, the rolled backs with arms that integrate to rear legs, banquet seat (est. $700-$1,000).

Wonderful decorative accessories will be plentiful, to include a 20th century Louisiana cast iron sugar kettle with a large, flared rim (est. $1,200-$1,800); a 19th century French Louis XVI crème peinte eagle lectern, the spread wing eagle with a snake perched on a sphere ledger shelf (est. $1,200-$1,500); a 19th century French Louis XV style giltwood and gesso overmantel mirror, the ‘C’ scroll having a central floral crest (est. $800-$1,200); and a group of 18 20th century sterling silver goblets by Fisher, #71 (est. $1,500-$2,500).

Internet bidding will be provided by the company website (CrescentCityAuctionGallery.com) and app, as well as LiveAuctioneers.com and Invaluable.com. Phone and absentee bids will also be taken. In-gallery previews will be held beginning Wednesday, March 12th, through Thursday, March 20th, excluding weekend days, from 10 am to 5 pm Central time. No appointment is necessary. The Crescent City gallery is located at 1330 St. Charles Avenue in New Orleans, La.

Absentee and phone bids will be accepted until 1 pm Central time the day before the auction.  A 28 percent buyer’s premium will be applied for online bidders or those paying with a credit card. A 25 percent buyer’s premium will be applied in-house. A printed catalog is available; please call 504-529-5057 or send a request via email to info@crescentcityauctiongallery.com.

For more information regarding Crescent City Auction Gallery and the two-day Estates Auction planned for Friday and Saturday, March 21st and 22nd, beginning at 10 am Central time both days, please visit www.crescentcityauctiongallery.com. Updates are posted frequently.

About Crescent City Auction Gallery:
Crescent City Auction Gallery is always seeking quality consignments for future auctions. To consign a single item, an estate or a collection, you can call them at (504) 529-5057; or you can send an e-mail to info@crescentcityauctiongallery.com. All phone calls and e-mails are confidential. For more information about Crescent City Auction Gallery, visit www.crescentcityauctiongallery.com. Updates are posted often.

Friday, February 28, 2025

Artworks by Krishen Khanna and Sheila Hicks Lead The Way in Ahlers & Ogletree Auction held February 20th in Atlanta

Atlanta, GA, USA, February 28, 2025 -- A 1965 oil on canvas abstract painting signed by Krishen Khanna (Indian/Pakistani, b. 1925) soared to $157,300, and a twisted metallic threads on canvas tapestry by Sheila Hicks (American / French, b. 1934) settled at $90,750 in Ahlers & Ogletree’s Modernism, Photography & African American Art auction held Thursday, February 20th, online and live in the Atlanta, Ga. gallery. 

The auction featured an outstanding selection of works from renowned artists across multiple disciplines, over 450 lots in all. The carefully curated sale included significant paintings and collages, photography, sculptures and textile art from both 20th century visionaries as well as contemporary masters. They included Salvador Dali, Henry Lawrence Faulkner and Tom Corbin. 

The untitled abstract figural painting by Krishen Khanna was signed (as “K Khanna, 65”) lower left and signed and dated to verso. It was impressive at 71 inches tall by 26 ¾ inches wide (canvas, less the frame) and easily topped its $30,000 high estimate. Khanna is a self-taught artist whose abstracted figurative artworks depict street scenes of the country and showcase Indian idioms and human values. 

The unframed tapestry by Sheila Hicks, titled Macro Broderie, was 48 inches tall by 50 inches wide with a gallery label for Suzy Langlois to verso. It, too, blasted through its high estimate of $30,000 and was the sale’s runner-up top lot. Hicks is known for her innovative and experimental weavings and sculptural textile art that incorporates distinctive colors, natural materials and personal narratives. 

Following are additional highlights from the auction, which attracted 20-25 in-person bidders to the gallery and grossed $1,068,581, including the buyer’s premium. Internet bidding was provided by LiveAuctioneers.com, Invaluable.com, Bidsquare.com and bid.AandOauctions.com. There were 33 phone bidders who placed over 66 bids. Over 400 people either tuned in or checked in to the sale. 

All prices quoted include a 21 percent buyer’s premium. 

There were three original works in the auction by Henry Lawrence Faulkner (American, 1924-1981), an American artist and poet known for his rebellious spirit, his wildly colorful oil paintings and his eccentric acts. All three surpassed their high estimates by a wide margin and included the following: 

- An untitled (Cat) oil on panel, signed lower right and housed in a 22 ¼ inch by 17 ¾ inch original frame by the artist. It brought $24,200 against a pre-sale estimate of $5,000-$7,000.

- An untitled (Still Life) oil on panel, boldly signed upper left, 11 inches by 13 ½ inches (panel, less frame by the artist). It hit $21,780 against a pre-sale estimate of $3,500-$5,500.

- An untitled (Whimsical Garden Scene with Lemon Tree) oil on Masonite, 7 ½ inches by 14 inches (Masonite, less frame). It made $20,570 against a high estimate of $3,000-$5,000. 

A Maguey fiber tapestry (Guatemala) after Alexander Calder (American, 1898-1976), titled Lambrizi (1975), embroidered “CA75” lower right and numbered “23/100” lower left, large at 56 inches tall by 84 inches wide, realized $16,940 against a high estimate of $5,000. Calder was a widely acclaimed sculptor known for his innovative mobiles (kinetic sculptures) and his monumental public sculptures. 

A bronze “Crescent” table by Tom Corbin (American, b. 1954), having a natural patina, circular top and base and curving pedestal, signed and dated to the underside of the top, finished at $13,310, against a high estimate of $2,500. The table was 20 ¼ inches in height by 18 inches in diameter. 

A life-size cast bronze figural sculpture by Victor Salmones (Mexican, 1937-1989), titled Poise, signed and numbered “4/10” to the plinth, 85 inches in height, rose to $12,100 against a high estimate of $5,000. Salmones was known for his Realist nude figure sculptors and this one was a fine example. 

An etching and aquatint in colors on Japon paper by Surrealist master Salvador Dali (Spanish, 1904-1989), titled Pegasus, from the “Mythology” series, circa 1963, signed lower right and numbered “X/XX” (10/20) lower left, 20 ¾ inches by 24 inches (minus the frame), with a gallery label to verso for William Weston Gallery (London), changed hands for $11,495 against a high estimate of $2,500. 

Ahlers & Ogletree’s next major event will be a two-session March Fine Estates & Collections Auction slated for Wednesday and Thursday, March 26th and 27th, online and live in the Atlanta gallery. Watch the website for further details – www.AandOAuctions.com.

To learn more about Ahlers & Ogletree and the firm’s calendar of upcoming events, please visit www.aandoauctions.com. You can also follow Ahlers & Ogletree on social media, at Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook. 

About Ahlers & Ogletree:
Ahlers & Ogletree is always seeking quality consignments for future auctions, especially Modern art, Asian arts and artifacts, and luxury jewelry and accessories. To consign a single item, an estate or a collection, call 404-869-2478; or, send an e-mail to consign@AandOauctions.com. To learn more about Ahlers & Ogletree and the firm’s calendar of upcoming events, please visit www.aandoauctions.com. You can also follow Ahlers & Ogletree on social media, at Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Monday, February 24, 2025

Items Signed by Washington, Lincoln, Einstein and U.S. Astronauts will be Sold Online, March 12, by University Archives

Wilton, CT, USA, February 25, 2025 -- Past U.S. Presidents will take center stage in University Archives’ online-only Rare Autographs, Manuscripts, Books & Memorabilia auction slated for Wednesday, March 12th, starting at 10am Eastern time, as items signed by Abraham Lincoln and George Washington and a White House engraving signed by six former Presidents will all cross the auction block.

All 549 lots in the catalog are up for viewing and bidding now on the recently redesigned University Archives website – www.UniversityArchives.com – as well as LiveAuctioneers.com, Invaluable.com and Auctionzip.com. Telephone and absentee bids will also be accepted.

“The March auction is a carefully curated selection of outstanding historical items, representing the best of U.S. Presidents, Science, Aviation/Space, World Leaders, Civil Rights, Literature, Art, Sports, and so much more,” said John Reznikoff, president and owner of University Archives.

Mr. Reznikoff added, “Most of the lots in this blockbuster sale are unreserved, meaning they will be sold to the highest bidder regardless of price, providing collectors with an exceptional buying opportunity. Scroll through our beautifully illustrated catalog to bookmark your favorite lots.”

21 lots in the sale are from the Skip Hensel Presidential Collection, an incredible group of presidential signed White House engravings amassed by the late Harold “Skip” Hensel (1940-2024). A presidential historian and a lifelong autograph collector, Hensel was a member of the United Autograph Collectors Club, the first club devoted to autograph collectors; the Manuscript Society; and philatelic organizations.

Hensel’s collection includes White House engravings signed by presidents ranging from Chester A. Arthur to Bill Clinton, plus two First Ladies’ signatures. All 21 items in the collection are certified by a third party, the majority of them PSA/DNA slabbed and graded between NM-MT 8 and GEM MT 10.

The marquee item of Hensel’s collection is lot 164, a superb and excessively rare White House engraving signed by six Presidents of the United States, they being Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush, Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter and Richard Nixon. The engraving measures 8 inches by 6 inches and is in good to fine condition. It has a pre-sale estimate of $6,000-$8,000.

Lot 74 is a blank ship’s passport boldly signed by President Abraham Lincoln and counter-signed by Secretary of State William Seward. The near fine state of the passport blank and the attractive signatures would make this a fine addition to any presidential collection (est. $10,000-$12,000).

Lot 155 is a document signed by George Washington in Alexandria, Virginia on August 5, 1786 in his capacity as President of the Potomac Company, which expanded the navigability of the Potomac River basin through the construction of canals. The receipt was for eight barrels of pork costing £32. In provenance provided with the lot, a copy of Washington’s diary reveals later that night he met with Potomac Company directors and dined at Wises Tavern (est. $8,000-$10,000).

Lot 205 is a vintage color photograph of all of the Mercury 7 astronauts in silver space suits and helmets, signed on the mat by: M. Scott Carpenter; L. Gordon Cooper, Jr.; John H. Glenn, Jr.; Virgil I. Grissom; Walter M. Schirra, Jr.; Alan B. Shepard, Jr.; and Donald K. Slayton. The lot is accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Zarelli Space Authentication (est. $5,000-$6,000).

Lot 509 is a group of Albert Einstein photographs and ephemera, including Einstein’s 15-cent “Postage Stamp” portrait after Hermann Landshoff, signed by Einstein and dated 1947, PSA/DNA slabbed and graded NM 7, issued in 1979 on the 100th anniversary of Einstein’s birthday. Rounding out the lot is an assortment of unpublished family photos of Einstein and his two companions, stepdaughter Margot Löwenthal and secretary Helen Dukas (est. $15,000-$20,000).

Lot 216 is a French postcard signed by intrepid inventor Wilbur Wright on December 8, 1908, three weeks before he won the Michelin Cup for breaking distance and duration flight records. The postcard, partly entitled “The Conquest of the Air,” shows the 1907 Wright Flyer next to a launching derrick at Camp d'Auvours, near Le Mans in France (est. $7,500-$10,000).

Lot 54 is an autograph letter signed by ex-President Thomas Jefferson, PSA/DNA slabbed and graded GEM MT 10. In this letter written at Monticello on October 17, 1816, Jefferson thanks Henry A.S. Dearborn for sending him an English translation of a scientific work by French agronomist Charles Philibert de Lasteyrie, discussing the applications of a plant capable of producing blue dye (est. $7,000-$9,000).

Lot 184 is an exquisite high-quality photographic print of one of Pierre-August Renoir’s original works of art, titled Jeune Fille Au Chapeau Jaune [Young Girl in a Yellow Hat], boldly signed by the artist in Cagnes-sur-Mer, France, circa January 10, 1911. Renoir’s signature is certified by the mayor’s signature as well as the mayoral seal. The print has an estimate of $6,000-$8,000.

Lot 547 is a collection of 34 vintage photos, including many Burkes, all handsomely matted and framed, signed by some of the most famous professional baseball players of the 20th century, including James "Cool Papa" Bell; Jerome "Dizzy" Dean; Bob Lemon; Walter "Buck" Leonard; Mickey Owen; Harold "Pee Wee" Reese; Phil "Scooter" Rizzuto and others (est. $5,000-$6,000).

Lot 426 is a 1-page typed letter signed by Winston Churchill in February 1957, addressed to event organizers for the English-Speaking Union, an international educational charity established in 1918. Churchill declined an invitation to attend George Washington’s Birthday Ball, sending his best wishes for its success. Churchill was half-American, half-British (est. $4,000-$5,000).

Lot 187 is a Campbell’s Chicken Noodle Soup can (with its original contents), signed twice by Pop Art icon Andy Warhol (American, 1927-1987), circa 1987. Warhol had popularized the soup brand in his art to criticize what he saw as mass consumerism in modern art (est. $3,000-$4,000).

Lot 197 is an official red number NASA photograph showing the crewmembers of Apollo 11, signed by Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins, and Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin (est. $3,000-$4,000).

Here is a link to the catalog on the University Archives website:

https://www.universityarchives.com/auction-catalog/rare-autographs-manuscripts-books-memorabilia_OHBWLLXCJB

University Archives has become world-renowned as a go-to source for rare items of this kind. It is actively seeking quality material for future auctions, presenting a rare opportunity for sellers. Anyone who has a single item or a collection that may be a fit for a future University Archives auction may call John Reznikoff at 203-454-0111; or email him at john@universityarchives.com.

For more information about University Archives and the Rare Autographs, Manuscripts, Books & Memorabilia auction planned for Wednesday, March 12th, visit www.universityarchives.com.

About University Archives:
University Archives was founded in 1979, as a division of University Stamp Company, by John Reznikoff, who started collecting stamps and coins in 1968, while in the third grade. Industry-wide, Reznikoff is considered the leading authenticity expert for manuscripts and documents. He consults with law enforcement, dealers, auction houses and both major authentication companies. University Archives is located at 88 Danbury Road (Suite #2A) in Wilton, Conn. For more information about University Archives, visit www.universityarchives.com.