Harvey Ellis Designed Furniture Focal Point of LiveAuctionTalk.com Rosemary McKittrick writes a weekly column devoted to the rare, weird and wonderful objects people love to collect.
Jan. 5, 2009 -- In 1903 architect, designer and craftsman Harvey Ellis accepted Gustav Stickley’s invitation to write for “The Craftsman” magazine. The two men worked together for only seven months. But, in that time Ellis introduced small, inlaid motifs that dressed up Stickley’s furniture. A good fit.
With an Arts and Crafts vision Stickley stepped to the forefront as the American voice for the Arts and Craft movement. Ellis helped Stickley take his vision to a new level.
Nowadays, collectors prize decorative Arts and Crafts details and Ellis designed pieces are highly collectible.
On Sept. 27 & 28, Rago Arts and Auction Center featured a Craftsman sale in Lambertville, N.J. A drop-front Harvey Ellis inlaid designed desk; circa 1903; signed with a red decal; sold for $42,000.
Here are current values for other Gustav Stickley lots sold in the auction.
Gustav Stickley
Dining Chairs; 8; v-back; no. 354 ½ ; six side chairs; two captain’s chairs; some are marked; 36 by 18 ½ by 16 ¾ inches; $3,900.
Magazine Stand; no. 514; chamfered sides and v apron; circa 1901; unsigned; 44 by 15 ½ by 15 inches; $4,200.
Magazine Cabinet; paneled and tapered sides; molded-edge shelves; unsigned; 39 by 15 ½ by 13 ½ inches; $9,000.
Bookcase; double-door; early red decal; circa 1901; 45 by 39 by 12 inches; $12,000.
Wardrobe; paneled doors and sides; ten drawers and pull-out mirror; paper label; 60 by 39 ½ by 24 inches; $14,400.
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