(Beverly, MA) - Kaminski Auctions’ Spring Fine Art and Estates Auction, which took place April 25-26, 2009, attracted bidders both locally in Massachusetts and internationally via phone and live online bidding. The auction offered a wide selection of fine art, antiques and collectibles from estates spanning Massachusetts to Kaminski’s second location in California. (All prices reflect a 15% buyers premium)
A bronze sculpture by Harriet Whitney Frishmuth stole the show at this exciting two-day auction. The Philadelphia-born sculptor is best known for her delicate depictions of the female form, which are highly sought after by both private collectors and major institutions. This piece captures two dancers mid-choreography, supporting each other with outstretched arms in a symmetrical pose. The intricately detailed bronze, dated 1921, features a light patina and marble base. A back-and-forth bidding war culminated when the piece sold at an impressive $31,600 to a floor bidder.
Also of note was a painting by Gloucester, MA artist Emile A. Gruppe (1896-1978). Best Birch - Underhill, Vermont, an oil on canvas measuring 30 x 36 inches, depicts a birch tree against a sweeping Vermont mountain range. A prime example of Gruppe’s impressionistic style, the painting brought a final price of $16,675. Kaminski has emerged as an authority on this Cape Ann School artist, having offered over 30 of his works at auction over the last several years.
Among a diverse selection of rare estate jewelry was a 14-karat white gold diamond ring. The ring boasts a 3.35ct brilliant cut diamond, I color, SI2 clarity. A floor bidder snagged this sparkling specimen at $10,350 after a volley of bidding.
Furniture highlights included an 18th Century Salem Chippendale mahogany chest. The serpentine front chest boasts a single-board molded top over four graduated drawers with original brass hardware. The piece stands 39 inches high and the top surface measures 42 inches in width. American furniture collectors jumped at the chance to take home this gem, which realized a final price of $4,715.
“I’m quite impressed with the turnout for our April auction,” comments Frank Kaminski, owner of Kaminski Auctions. “The energy in the room was remarkable and it really made for an exciting event. This kind of excitement helps us achieve great prices for our sellers.”
About Kaminski Auctions
Kaminski Auctions, headed by Frank Kaminski, specializes in appraising and auctioning fine art and antiques. As part of a complete estate service package, Kaminski provides expert appraisals, local and national advertising for all sales, competitive fees, and itemized accounting of all transactions for heirs and representatives. In addition to full estate auctions, Kaminski accepts partial estate liquidations, as well as individual pieces and collections for consignment. The firm's extensive clientele includes museums, historical societies, corporations, non-profit organizations and private individuals. In early 2007, Kaminski launched a second operation in California. For information, visit www.KaminskiAuctions.com or call 978-927-2223.
