Antiques & Collectibles Auction w/ Giuseppe Armani, Hummel & Royal Doulton Figurines; Sterling Silver, Waterford, Swarovski, Antique Art & Furniture, Victorian Art Glass, Waterford Crystal, Estate Jewelry and much more!

Antiques & Collectibles Auction - 850 Lots!

Saturday, March 30, 2013 beginning at 10am

Previews are Friday, March 29 from 10am - 5pm and Saturday beginning at 8am

Highlights are an extensive assortment of 270 Rare and Hard to Find Giuseppe Armani Figurines, Hummel & Royal Doulton Figurines; Sterling Silver, Waterford, Swarovski & Waterford Crystal, Antique Art & Furniture, Victorian Art Glass, Gold & Diamond Estate Jewelry, Clocks, Lamps, and much more!

Crystal River, FL - Professional Appraisers and Liquidators Antique Auction will present one of the largest collections of Giuseppe Armani figurines ever to be auctioned at one time as part of their Antique and Collectibles Auction on Saturday, March 30th beginning at 10am.  The 850 Lot auction will feature over 270 of these highly collectible figurines from a serious New York collector -- to include sculptures by the artist dating from the 1970s to present.  Crossing the block will be Limited Editions, retired, rare and "hard to find" pieces, Artist's Proofs (meaning in this case that the item will be one of only five ever made), Society Member pieces, Figurines of the Year, miniatures, and sculptures that have been signed by the Artist.  Subject matter for the Armani statues includes Walt Disney characters, Josephine Baker, Artemis, African American figurines  and “The Three Graces” -- which is a Limited Edition of only 50 ever made. Some of the Disney favorites to cross the block are Cinderella, Beauty & the Beast, Snow White, Jasmine & Rajah, Tinkerbell, Classic Mickey Mouse and others. Giuseppe Armani statues are made in Florence, Italy, and the consignor of this fabulous collection will be on hand during the auction preview to answer any questions you may have.  The consignor, a New York Collector, will also share photos of he and Giurseppe Armani and other artists from Florence.  

Click HERE for a history of Florence Studios and Giuseppe Armani.  

 

Those who collect Hummel Figurines will be pleased to find that the auction will begin with over 200 Hummels -- many of them will come with their original boxes.  The assortment of Hummels ranges from Trademark #2 through Trademark 8's and includes Collector's Club Editions as well as a very special patriotic Hummel Figurine, "Call to Glory", which was signed and dated by Artist "Schrobek" at the 1995 Hummel Club Convention. 

 

Swarovski Collectors and Royal Doulton enthusiastists will not be disappointed, since there are many figurines from both makers, as well as Royal Doulton Toby Character Jugs in the March 30th auction. Also in the collectible category are Vintage Glass Canes and 2 Pre-Ban Ivory Walking Sticks, Vintage and Antique beaded handbags, and more.

 

Jewelry lovers will enjoy a fine collection of Estate Jewelry to include Fine Gold, Diamond and Gemstone rings, earrings, and necklaces.

 

Sterling Silver collectors will be happy to find famous silversmiths represented, including Gorham and Tiffany.  Sterling Silver items offered include  an antique calling card cases, hair combs,a muffineer, thimbles, and an assortment of flatware and holloware.  In additon, a rare and extravagent Silver Russian Enameled shot glass will be up for auction.

 

Pottery, Porcelain and China in Saturday's auction includes pieces by famous makers such as Sevres, RS Prussia, Wavecrest, Hand Painted Nippon, Royal Dux, Meissen and Chinese Exports, as well as Weller, Van Briggle and Roseville. 

 

As always, there will be antique art -- many by Listed Artists, Oil Paintings, Paintings on Ivory, Enameled Paintings, and Pastels.

 

In addition, a fabulous variety of glassware will be up for auction in this sale. Waterford, Baccarat and Lalique Crystal as well as American Brilliant Cut Glass, Heisey, Fenton, Early American Pattern Glass, Bohemian Art Glass, and Carnival glass will be offered.  Lamps include a Gone with the Wind lamp, a Reverse Painted Jefferson Lamp and more.

 

Besides the antique furniture, this auction will feature 6 splendid contemporary curio cabinets that housed the Armani Collection, and would be perfect to display any of your collectibles. 

 

Rounding out the sale are bronze miniatures, Bradley and Hubbard cast iron doorstops, exquisite Cloisonne', Copperware, Antique Hand Hooked Rugs, clocks to include an 1870's grandfather's clock, and much more. 

 

For your convenience, bidding for this auction can be done by several methods.  The auction gallery accepts live bids as well as absentee and telephone bids (minimums may apply for phone bids).  Out of town bidders will be pleased to find that they may bid in real time via the internet on either LiveAuctioneers.com or AuctionZip.com. 

 

For further information, visit their website at www.charliefudge.com or call 352795-2061 or 800-542-3831.   

THE FOLLOWING VIDEO IS A VIRTUAL PREVIEW OF THE AUCTION....

 

VIRTUAL PREVIEW PART 2

 

 

Disclaimer: All information was derived from sources believed to be correct but is not guaranteed. All announcements at sale take precedence over any printed matter. Professional Appraisers and Liquidators, LLC Auction Gallery strongly encourages in-person inspection of items by the bidder. Statements by our auctioneers regarding the condition of objects are for guidance only and SHOULD NOT be relied upon as statements of fact and do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Professional Appraisers and Liquidators. All lots offered are sold "As Is", yet we DO guarantee gold and silver content if the content is stated in the catalog, as well as whether or not a Diamond is “genuine”. We are not gemologists, therefore, we are not qualified to “grade” diamonds for color or clarity, but we do test them and guarantee our findings as to authenticity .

More about Professional Appraisers and Liqudators Antique Auctions, LLC: 

We buy fine art, estate jewelry, antiques and collectibles. We also purchase complete contents of estates and collections. We offer complete Senior Relocation Services. We also provide appraisals, and will give free verbal appraisals (There may be a fee if the owner does not bring the items to us -- This depends on the Quality of the Antiques, Jewelry and/or collectibles.). We have 40 years experience with valuations for probate and division of assets. References from attorneys, realtors, and other clients are provided upon request. We hold approximately 3 or 4 high-end auctions per year ,which are advertised throughout the world and are open for worldwide bidding via internet portals such as Proxibid and /or LiveAuctioneers.com. A list of the items we buy, accept on consignment, appraise and auction follows.                                                 

WE BUY, SELL & ACCEPT CONSIGNMENT ON THE FOLLOWING ITEMS, ERAS, & MAKERS (AND MORE!)18th, 19th and 20th Century Art including Oil and Pastel Paintings, Paintings on Porcelain and Ivory, Etchings and Engravings, Prints and Bronzes by European and North American Listed Artists; Needlepoint, Tapestry and Embroidered Samplers as well as Antique and Vintage Quilts; Sterling Silver by famous makers such as Tiffany, Gorham, Georg Jensen, Taxco Mexican, Towle, Frankart, Roycroft, Edgar Brandt, Shiebler, Duhme, Whiting, Lunt, Tea and Coffee Sets, Platters and Jewelry; Art Pottery by Rookwood, Roseville, Hull, Moorcroft, Weller, Fulper, Grueby, Niloak, Van Briggle, Newcomb College, Metlox, Owens, Stangl, Fulper, Ohr and others; Glass by Tiffany, Moser, Loetz, Wavecrest, Mt Washington, Galle, Le Verre Francais, Daum, Daum Nancy, Lalique, Peachblow, Burmese, Czechoslovakian and others; Victorian Art Glass; Crystal by Heisey, Steuben and Waterford; Elegant Glass by Cambridge, Fostoria, Duncan Miller and Heisey; Depression, Northwood and Carnival Glass, Brilliant Period Cut Glass, Early American Pattern Glass; Paperweights by Clichy, Baccarat, Ralph Barber, Mount Washington and others; Antique Lamps by Tiffany, Pairpoint, Galle, Daum Nancy, Daum, Le Verre Francais, Frankart, Duffner & Kimberly, Fulper, Stickley, Roycroft, Moe Bridges, Pittsburg, and Handel; Porcelain, China and Ceramics including Flow Blue, Limoges, Staffordshire, Minton, Meissen, Dresden, Noritake, Nippon, Sevres, Royal Doulton, Royal Copenhagen, Royal Dux, Shelley, Wedgwood, Metlox, RS Prussia, Rosenthal, Russel Wright, Teapots & Coffee Pots. Clocks including Mantle, Banjo, Vienna Regulators, Figural, Bronze, Crystal Regulators, Wall, Kitchen, Carriage, and Tall Case / Grandfather Clocks by makers such as Gustav Becker, Lenzkirch, Elliott, Harrington, Seth Thomas, Ansonia, Ingraham, Ingersoll, E. Howard, Waltham, Samuel Abbott, New Haven, Waterbury, Welch, Chelsea, Kroeber, Howard & Davis, S.Marti, Japy, and others. Gold, Diamond and Gemstone Jewelry and Watches by Cartier, Tiffany, Van Cleef & Arpels, Philipe Patek, Jensen, Miriam Haskell, Hattie Carnegie, Trifari, Schiaparelli, Weiss, and many others. Our jewelry selection includes Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco, Art Nouveau eras.
Other items include Military Collectibles including Uniforms and Medals, Antique Guns, Antique Oriental Rugs, items by Native American Indians, Americana, Black Memorabilia, Mid Century Modern Furniture and Collectibles, Primitives, Antique and Vintage Dolls, Toys and Trains. We buy and sell / auction Furniture and other items from the Federal, Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco, Art Nouveau, and Mid Century Modern eras as well as the Aesthetic, Arts & Crafts, Danish Modern, Swedish Modern & Mid Century Modern or Retro Movements / Periods.

Our client base includes collectors and dealers from all over the world because, in addition to our 300 seat Auction Gallery, we offer on-line internet bidding -- which means that bidders can participate in the auction in real-time from anywhere in the world via the internet. Our advertising reaches U.S. and International Bidders via internet and trade publications, direct mail brochures to proven bidders, mass email newsletters, print ads, press releases, as well as making use of radio and TV publicity. We participate in Social Networking such as Facebook and Twitter, and maintain 2 blogs. We are also listed on all the major internet auction calendars. We also maintain our own website, which rates very high on Google searches.
We make "house calls" in Florida, on the East Coast and throughout the Southeast, with an emphasis on New York, Ohio, and Florida. We will buy (or take on consignment) one item, a collection, or the complete contents of an estate. We enjoy helping seniors downsize for Assisted Living or move near loved ones.
The professional, courteous, and ethical service by our experienced staff has been the source of word of mouth referrals from buyers and sellers alike for nearly 4 decades. Our business is operated with honesty, integrity and old fashioned values, which has, over the years, resulted in thousands of referrals from clients, their families & neighbors, heirs, sellers, attorneys, realtors, and consignors alike -- and there is no better advertising than word of mouth. For further information you can view our website at http://www.charliefudge.com/, email us at webuyit@tampabay.rr.com or phone us at 352-795-2061 or toll free at 800-542-3877. If you have an "antiques emergency" after hours, you can reach us at 727-385-6109. We welcome the opportunity to further discuss our auction and appraisal services with you. 

ANTIQUES, FINE ART, FINE JEWELRY & COLLECTIBLES

By: Professional Appraisers & Liquidators LLC

811 SE Hwy 19, Crystal River, FL 34429

** 352-795-2061 ** 800-542-3877 ** Fax: 352-795-2039

http://www.charliefudge.com/ webuyit@tampabay.rr.com

Charles Fudge, Auctioneer, AU 1593 / AB 1131



ANTIQUES and; FINE ART FROM FLORIDA AND NY ESTATES LEAD THE ANNUAL FALL AUCTION AT PROFESSIONAL APPRAISERS and LIQUIDATORS 27 OCTOBER 2012

ANTIQUES & FINE ART FROM FLORIDA AND NY ESTATES LEAD THE ANNUAL FALL AUCTION AT PROFESSIONAL APPRAISERS & LIQUIDATORS 27 OCTOBER 2012.


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Charles Fudge
webuyit@tampabay.rr.com
352.795.2061

Crystal River, FL – October 1, 2012.

On October 27, 2012 beginning at 10am, Antique Auctions by Professional Appraisers and Liquidators (www.charliefudgecom) will present their annual Fall Antiques, Fine Art & Collectibles Auction, featuring over 500 lots of Nineteenth to Mid Twentieth Century Treasures, at 811 S Suncoast Blvd, Crystal River, FL. Real time bidding will also be available on-line via www.proxibid.com and www.liveauctioneers.com.

“October always brings our best auction”, says Charles Fudge,owner and 40 year veteran auctioneer. “We spend the Spring and Summer scouring the East Coast --from Maine to Florida, looking for estates, collections, and special pieces to present in our Fall Antiques, Fine Art & Collectibles Auction, which is held on the last Saturday of October each year. We can present the cream of the crop because we've had so much time between auctions to hand select the best of the best. October is also the time of year when we welcome the “Snowbirds” back to Florida. It is the beginning of our “season”. “In addition to the locals and snowbirds”, continues Fudge, “the Fall auction, draws the year's best attendance for on-line bidders on Proxibid.com and LiveAuctioneers.com due to the quality of the merchandise offered.”

Buccellati Sterling Silver from Italy

This year's auction will feature important art, antiques and collectibles from the estates of very prominent people, whose heirs have asked us to keep their identity anonymous. Highlights will include a variety of Bronze Statues (including Japanese, and listed artist signed and/or numbered); a wide variety of Sterling Silver including a coffee pot (Estimate: $2000-4000) a milk pitcher (Estimate: $1000-2000) and a flatware set in the Empire pattern (Estimate $3500-4500).by famous Italian Silversmith, Buccellati (a.k.a. the “Tiffany” of Europe) and a plethera of other sterling silver by makers Tiffany and Co, Kirk & Sons, L.H. Vaughan, Webster, William Adams, Lunt, Gorham, Theodore & Starr, R.W. Wallace, Roger Williams, Reed & Barton; Alvin; Gorham, Eugen Ferner and Comyns & Sons; as well as a Copper & Sterling Silver Tea Kettle by Joseph Heinrich (Estimate $100-200). Also to cross the auction block is an assortment of Victorian Art Glass and other glassware and crystal, pottery and porcelain, a nice selection of Orientalia, Mid-Century and Danish Modern Furniture, Estate Jewelry (Solid Gold, Silver, Diamond & Gemstones), Antique Furniture, Lamps, Clocks, Investment Grade Art, Antique Carved Ivory, Antique Guns, 19th Century Quilts and Samplers, and many other treasures.

The auction will open with a variety of collectibles, including figurines by Hummel, Lladro, Kaiser, Dresden and Royal Doulton, as well as Baccarat, Swarovski and Lalique crystal collectibles and animals. Dispersed throughout the sale will be the gold, diamond and gemstone jewelry from various estates.

Antonio Jacobsen Oil Painting

Throughout the auction will be many investment grade paintings with “listed artists” abounding. The most impressive is the Oil on Board Painting of a Clipper Ship, signed by Antonio Jacobsen (1850-1921), and dated 1918 (Estimate: $3,000-5000). Another painting of note is the large, oval-shaped, 19th Century Oil on Canvas in the Manner of Pieter III Casteels depicting Chicks, Rooster, Birds & a White Pheasant (Estimate: $2000-4000). Other paintings by listed artists include a Francis K. Buell watercolor of Sailboats, an Oil on Canvas by Jean-Claude Brulere XX, entitled "Paysage De Neige" (Snow Landscape), a Still Life by Argentenian Impressionist Segunda Huertas-Aguiar, and a watercolor by Warren W. Baumgartner (Estimate: $400-600). Parisian Steet Scenes are depicted in a pair of Oil on Canvas paintings by Andre Gisson (Each estimated at $1800-2500), as well as a watercolor by Antonio DeVity, and an Oil on Canvas by Maurille Prevost (1922). Oriental art includes Japanese Wood Block Prints and a Japanese Watercolor on Paper by Ryuko Tsutaya (1868-1933) as well as bronzes and a Signed Japanese Meiji Intricately Carved Wood Samurai (Estimate: $1500-2500).

Also of note are Aquatints, Serigraphs and Lithographs by listed artists including LeRoy Nieman, Salvador Dali and Marc Chagall, a Serio-Lithograph by Itzchak Tarkay (1935), and original Lithographs by Joan Miro. The Dali is a signed and numbered limited edition, and the Nieman is an Artist Proof of 300 editions. The Chagall and Miro's come with Certificates of Authenticity and original Merrill Chase Galleries Labels.

Danish Modern Table by Rasmus

Mid-Century Modern selections include 4 Danish Modern Chairs by Dyrlund (Estimate: $400-600) and a double-pedestal dining table by Rasmus (Estimate: $400-600), which pair nicely together. Also from Mid-Century Denmark is a Cube-shaped Inlaid Sofa Table signed Tranekaer, Gorm Christiansen Design Rolf Middleboe (Estimate: $400-600) . Also from the Mid-Century are two Mario Bellini Cab 413 Leather Arm Chairs produced by Cassina for Atelier International Ltd (Estimate: $400-600 each); an iconic aluminum chair by Emeco (Estimate: $200-400) and three Singer Featherweight sewing machines with original cases.

The glass category is extensive and includes Waterford and Rosenthal Studio Line Crystal and Stemware, American Brilliant Period Cut Glass, Victorian Art Glass by famous makers such as Webb, Stevens & Williams, Moser, C.F. Monroe, Steuben, Hobbs, Northwood, Nakara, Peloton and more, as well as an impressive collection of Victorian Hand Painted Chatelaine Perfume or Scent Bottles. The highlight of the glass is sure to be the 2 Pairpoint Reverse Painted Bubble Stems, which are rare book pieces found in John Schuman's Book "American Art Glass" (Estimates: $500-700 each).Crossing the block later in the sale will be ephemera to include letters and signatures from the likes of John F Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, J Edgar Hoover and correspondance regarding the Attorney General and the Department of Justice; In addition, a fabulous collection of very fine canes and walking sticks will be offered. Among the canes and walking sticks are 2 Captain's Canes comprised of Marine Animal or SharkVertebrae (Estimates: $100-200), canes with ivory and horn handles, a cane with a carved ivory handle in the form of a dog with jeweled eyes and a sterling silver band (Estimate: $100-200), and a fabulous Tiffany & Co cane with an Art Nouveau decorated silver handle dated Christmas, 1891 (Estimate: $200-300) – to name a few.

19th Century German Symphonion Coin Operated Disc Music Box

Additonal highlights include a 19th Century Coin-Operated Symphonion Disc Music Box (Estimate: $600-800), A pair of 30” 19th Century hand carved and gilded wooden Whippet dogs (Estimate: $600-800), a 19th Century Textile Panel (Estimate: $500-800), 19th Century Antique Guns including an Allen & Thurber Pepperbox Pistol 1845 (Estimate: $600-800), and a Remington Rolling Block Circa 1880s (Estimate: $600-800). Other items of importance are Jarvie-Style Beta Form Brass Candlesticks(Estimate: $600-800), Art Deco Onyx & Bronze Desk Items; 19c Inuit Whaling Items incl Lance, Harpoon, & Knife (Estimate: $600-800) ; Japanese Samurai Swords and Daggers including a WWII Japanese Wakizashi Sword (Estimate $1000-1500), and an A.G. Kaufman Gas Lamp with Slag Glass Shade (Estimate: $300-500).

Charles Fudge, owner and auctioneer at Professional Appraisers and Liquidators Antique Auctions, is a 40-year auction veteran. He specializes in Fine Art and high-end antiques. For more information you can contact him at 352-795-2061 or at webuyit@tampabay.rr.com.

Additional Tags / Keywords: Antiques Auction, Antique Oil Paintings, Mid Century Modern, Art Deco, Disk Music Box, Captain's Cane, Vertebrae Cane, Antique Ivory, Estate jewelry, Lalique, Waterford, Chatelaine, Ephemera

Antique Auctions are Going Global with Internet Bidding - Live vs Internet Bidding

The days of hundreds of biddings filling an Auction House floor, with sounds of Ring Men yelling "Yup, Yup" seem to be heading toward extinction.   Many auction houses have gone the way of "Internet Bidding Only".  First it was eBay Live (now Live Auctioneers), then Proxibid, Auction Zip, Art Fact, and others, that began to offer the luxury of sitting in your living room, perhaps even in your pajamas, and bidding on auctions all over the country - even the world -- at any time of day.  The introduction of these internet bidding portals changed the way Antique Dealers and Collectors found their treasure.  No longer did they have to drive from Miami to New York to bid on that "must have" item.  They simply logged into their desk-top computer at home, or their laptop while travelling, and bid on that special item without ever having to step foot into an auction gallery.  Convenience became key.  Winning bidders could simply pay for the auction lots they won, and wait for delivery via UPS or US Postal Service a week or so later.  Suddenly, a small little auction house in the middle of nowhere might sell an item to a bidder in Russia, or China, or even to someone in their proximity who, for one reason or another, decided to stay home and bid. 

Professional Appraisers and Liquidators, LLC, owned and operated by Charles Fudge, of Crystal River -- formerly of St. Petersburg, FL has been in business for approximately 40 years and, as a result, has seen this transformation of the auction business first hand.  When asked, he prefers an "old fashioned auction", with hundreds of live bidders, and the excitement of watching the faces of bidders as they participate in the bidding frenzy and then happily go home with the antiques they've won.  However, in this day and age of electronic everything, it is just not practical.  Says Fudge, "You just have to keep up with the times".   He notes that he has bidders less than a 30-minute drive away who, despite their close proximity to the auction gallery, still prefer to do their bidding from the comfort of their chaise lounge, and pick up their wins at the end of the auction, or perhaps a few days later. 

There is a cost for this convenience, however.  Most on-line bidding portal companies, such as Live Auctioneers or Proxibid, charge a higher Buyer's Premium (a fee which is added to the final bid, created to cover auction expenses) than his auction house charges.  He still charges the same 10 Percent BP (Buyer's Premium) that he charged 20 years ago.  But for his customers bidding via computer programs, percents as high as 23% may be charged by the Internet Auction Companies. 
The internet customers say they don't mind.  After all, with the price of gasoline these days, they report it all works out better for them in the end.  Customer Service is what it is all about for Professional Appraisers and Liquidators, LLC, and thus, they offer both Live Bidding and Internet Bidding -- in an effort to satisfy all of their current and potential clients.  The "regulars" still reserve their seat in the Auction Gallery, show up early to preview the items up for bid, and hold their bidding cards high to the sound of "Yup, Yup" from the staff as they bid to gain that perfect antique they've been looking for.  They can see for themselves, when bidding may be at a lull for an item they hadn't even considered bidding on, and bid on it anyway, so they can end up with bragging rights for the great bargain they obtained.   Internet bidders don't quite get the full "effect" of the excitement of the auction, but the variety of auctions they can attend on any given day, without leaving their home makes up for that loss. 

Whether to bid in person, or participate in an antique auction on-line is all a matter of personal preference.  Those considering the options should look at the following:  1.  How far away is the auction?  Is it in a convenient location, or too far for travel?  2.  What is the Buyer's Premium to bid in person vs. to bid on the internet.  (Take the 2 costs and weigh them against the cost of travel to the auction gallery).  3.  Consider the photographs the auction has provided for each item.  Do they show every side of an item, so you can examine it as if you held it in person?  Do you feel comfortable enough with their photos to risk bidding without seeing the item in person?  4.  Ask others about the reputation of the auction gallery.  Are they fair and honest?  How long have they been in business?  Do they have references?  Do their descriptions accurately describe their merchandise?  Do they guarantee their diamonds and gold to be genuine?  Do they provide the gram or ounce weight of their precious metals?  5.  Are you participating in the auction for entertainment value or as a business?  If you enjoy the atmosphere of a live auction, and are not seeking to purchase anything in particular, then you probably would be best to attend a local auction, where you can see, feel, and hear the excitement of the auction.  If you are a serious collector or a dealer, then perhaps the more auctions you can attend in one day via your computer, you might make out better, but consider the extra buyer's premium and the cost of shipping prior to making your decision.

The internet has surely changed the shape of the world, and with that, of course, it changed auctions forever.  Some will stick to the tried and true way of examing the items in person, and holding their bid cards in the air for the auctioneer to see, while others, who may never have attended a live auction in their lives, may be introduced to the thrill an auction brings, as they push buttons on their computer, and wait for their "wins" to arrive in the mail.  Either way, an auction is a great way to purchase items at the lowest possible cost, as the price of any given item is determined by the customers wanting to bid on it.

If you would like to attend Professional Appraisers and Liquidators upcoming antique auction ever live or via the internet on Live Auctioneers, click HERE for more inforation.  Their October 30th Antique Auction begins at 10am and includes Estate Jewelry, Hummel and Royal Doulton Figurines, Antique Art, Antique Furniture, Miniature Portrait Paintings on Ivory and many other treasures. 

Benefits to All-Inclusive Resort Vacations - Comparing Jamaica and Dominican Republic / DR

Working as hard as we do, we like to get away now and then.  We especially enjoy All-Inclusive resorts in the Carribean.  The great thing about all-inclusive, is that everything is located in one place.  As much travel as we do to find great antiques, we do not want to navigate a foreign country while on vacation.  So we almost always go the all-inclusive route.  In Jamaica, we've been to Sandals in Negril and Ocho Rios and Couples in Ocho Rios.  In the Dominican Republic -- our most recent trip to Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Club Resort in Puerto Plata on Cofresi Beach -- we thoroughly enjoyed their ultra luxurious accomodations -- they are MUCH newer and more upscale than eiher Couples or Sandals!  They were also less expensive.  Yes, we paid LESS and the accomodations were so much nicer and newer!

When comparing food, I would say that Sandals, Couples and LHVC are all about the same.  Lots of buffet choices, as well as individual restaurants on tthe premises that they call "Gourmet".  I'd say "upscale" for all, but not the "U.S. Version" of Gourmet.  Don't get me wrong.. the food is enjoyable at all with plenty of options, but I've never found food outside America to be anything too special.

Food aside, let's talk beaches!  (My favorite part of any resort vacation).  They all have lovely beaches.  I found Sandals in Ocho Rios to be a VERY far walk to the beach.  We got a special deal one time that included "Butler Service" (more about this later, it isn't really worth paying extra for, but sure does feel nice when its a freebie!).  Anyway, with my bad back and leg, we could have NEVER navigated to the beach area at Sandals Ocho Rios unless we had the butler option, since they drove you around the resort as long as you pre-arranged via a cell phone they gave you on check-in.  Sandals Negril was just footsteps from our room to the beach (literally), and Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Club gives you a golf cart (based on availability with a villa rental) and they have shuttles running constantly to get you anywhere. 

What I love about the beaches and pools at LHVC in the Dominican Republic is that they have BEDS on the beaches and at the pools.  Lovely beds with white linens and pillows. Some are poster type beds that have white linen canopy.  They have plenty of hammocks in the shade.  And if you rent a private villa, you will have a HUGE backyard swimming pool and patio (unlike the tiny pools at Sandals, that cost a fortune but are only about 6' by 10' and often in the shade so even in the carribean heat they are very cold!).  Next time we can afford a getaway, it will definitely be the private villa with the beautifully landscaped pool at Lifestyles.  As modern and clean as our accomodations were, I coveted those villas!  (The villas sleep from 6 to 12 people in combinations ranging from 3 bedroom/3 bath to 6 bedrooms and 6 baths). Another benefit to their villas is that you get domestic help who, in addition to housekeeping, actually come in and cook your breakfast for you each day!!!  The villas I looked at on tour looked brand new and lavish.  LHVC in Puerto Plata, DR is luxury all the way!

Every time I've looked on the internet for vacation options, I've wished I could find someone who did some sort of comparison between the resorts, so this is the start of my attempt at a review that compares several of the all-inclusive options.  I'll post more in the future.  If you have questions, you can email me or post a comment. 

Oh, one last thing!  If you decide on Lifestyles, be sure to rent through a V.I.P. member so you can have access to the VIP Beaches, Pools, Bars and Restaurants that really add to the experience.  We got a great deal through http://dominicanluxuryresort.com/   I highly recommend them.

Another reason All-Inclusive Resorts in the carribean are so great, is that there is SO MUCH to do on property, and you can leave your wallet in the room, unless you want to indulge in excursions off property which cost extra.  I never found the need to leave the paradise we had at any of the resorts.  Tipping is never mandated, and at Couples resorts they really discourage it, but take a stack of $1 bills for tipping, and you'll be treated like royalty and make a difference to people trying to earn a nice living in a Third World Country.  I'm sure the one dollar tips adding up over the course of a day, make a huge difference in the staff's lifestyle since their average monthly pay is so low you would cringe. 
 

EUROPEAN FINE ART & ANTIQUES HIGHLIGHT AUCTION BY PROFESSIONAL APPRAISERS & LIQUIDATORS IN FLORIDA ON JUNE 26 AT 10AM

Professional Appraisers and Liquidators LLC

Antique Auctions

811 SE US Hwy 19, Crystal River, FL 34429

352-795-2061 // 800-542-3877

http://www.charliefudge.com/

THE LATE CAPTAIN HARRY RENKER'S ANTIQUES FROM AROUND THE WORLD TO BE AUCTIONED BY PROFESSIONAL APPRAISERS AND LIQUIDATORS

The Estate of World War II Veteran, Retired Delta Airlines Pilot, Antique Shop Owner and Private Collector of European & Oriental Antiques and Fine Art, Pre-Columbian Artifacts, and Armour and Weaponry to be Auctioned by Professional Appraisers and Liquidators at their Gallery on Saturday, June 26th, 2010 at 10am in Crystal River Florida.

Crystal River, FL June 8, 2010 -- Professional Appraisers and Liquidators Antique Auctions will be the venue for the Estate of Harry Renker, Retired Delta Pilot and International Purveyor of Fine Antiques. The auction takes place on June 26, 2010 beginning at 10am. Auctioneer, Charles Fudge, a 40 year veteran auctioneer of antiques, fine art and collectibles says this collection is one of the finest he's seen. On-line bidding is available via Proxibid and LiveAuctioneers and Absentee or Phone Bidding is welcome.

The late Captain Harry Renker flew in the U.S. Army Air Corps in combat missions over the South Pacific during World War II, where he awarded The Distinguished Flying Cross, and 3 Air Medals. He served as personal Pilot and Liaison to Generals Truesdale and Candee at Fort Leavenworth Kansas, and was a Delta airline pilot since 1946. He flew ultra-lites until he was 87 years old, and was loved by many. However, flying wasn't his only passion. Renker and his wife Gayle also loved fine art and studied antiques -- particularly European Antiques and Fine Art -- so much so that they even owned an antique shop in the quaint city of Geneva, Illinois.

Being an airline pilot had its benefits. Harry Renker and his wife enjoyed their flight privileges to the fullest. They traveled the world together searching for antique treasures. Many were sold in their shop, but the prized possessions were saved for their personal collection. They particularly loved traversing off the beaten path to shops hidden in England and Scotland's countryside. It was there they found many of the antiquities that will cross the auction block on June 26th when Professional Appraisers and Liquidators Antique Auction Gallery offers the Renker's private collection to the public.

Charles Fudge, owner, and principal auctioneer of Professional Appraisers and Liquidators Antique Auction Gallery reports, "The Renker estate represents a wide assortment of fine European and Asian fine art and antiques, including antique armor and weaponry. It is an honor to present this World War II hero's personal collection to the public." The auction will be held in the firm's gallery in West Central Florida. In addition to floor bidding, Internet, telephone and absentee bidding are available for convenience.

Over 400 Lots from the Seventeenth to Nineteenth Centuries will be offered with emphasis on European and Asian Art and Antiques. Art offerings contain paintings on porcelain and ivory including miniatures and portraits. Withing the Paintings on Porcelain category, one will find KPM, Huetschenreuther, and signed Wagner. Subjects in the portraits on ivory and porcelain range from Marie Antoinette, Mary Queen of Scots, and Polish Countess Sophie Potocka to nymphs Psyche and Daphne. A miniature watercolor of a man smoking pipe by Raffaella Ragione is included in this category as well. Scenic Porcelain plaques include a Tyrolean social scene after DeFregger on KPM and an 18 x 15 sailing scene dated 1835. 19th Century Oil Paintings offered include The Dreamer by Mary Ellen Freer-Edwards-Staples, and other Listed European Artists such as Heinz Munnich, C.J. Staniland, and others. Marble and Bronze sculptures are represented by European artists including Cipriani, Van Vaerekbergh and Fontaine. Cold Painted Austrian (Vienna) Bronzes include signed Bergman. A unique item signed Bergman is a Feather shaped Pen Holder holding an emerald eyed owl.

Renker's European interest did not stop with Fine Art. He also amassed a fine collection of antique armour and weaponry representing the seventeenth through nineteenth century that will cross the auction block as the estate is liquidated. Hard to find Terrestrial and Celestial Bardin Globes and a Victorian Mother of Pearl Posy Holder are items sure to draw attention.

The estate also includes some very fine Oriental items from the Renker's travels. Outstanding ivory carvings such as a detailed 22" Pagoda and a pair of Phoenix birds, whose master set is in the Peking Museum, will be sold as well. Chinoiserie, cloisonne and fabulous Japanese Bronze Urns and Vases will be offered. A variety of Buddha figures ranging from a set of five miniature Siamese bronze Buddha heads to an eighteenth century carved wooden Buddha measuring 25 inches in height are of interest. Many other fine oriental items including signed pieces will also be offered.

Clocks from both sides of "the pond" will also be offered. Highlights are two Tiffany and Co clocks and a cast iron figural Ansonia representing the U.S., while a 33 inch Oak Cased Webster 8-Day Triple Fusee Mantle Clock is a favorite from England, and an early 19th Century Regulator hails from Vienna. Hailing from Germany is a 19th Century Wag on the Wall and of course, a Black Forest Cuckoo. But, the creme de la creme is the exquisite French Louis XVI Style Dore Bronze and Marble Figural Mantle Clock after François Rémond's “Pendule A L'Etude Et La Philosophie” with works by Samuel Marti, Circa 1900. It will be sold with the previous owner's notes and newspaper clippings that infer provenance from Sotheby's auction of the Geraldine Rockefeller Dodge estate.
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North American offerings range from Pre-Columbian artifacts such as a Mayan Polychrome Cylinder Vase to Native American Indian Vessels and even an ivory carving of Polar Bears by renowned Alaskan Inupiat whaling captain and artist, Simeon Patkotak.

The complete catalog for the Estate of the Late Captain Harry Renker Auction (with selected additions), along with photographs of each item is posted on www.proxibid.com and www.liveauctioneers.com, where real-time online bidding is available for your convenience. View our website at http://www.charliefudge.com/ for additional information.  Floor bidding, absentee and telephone bidding is also offered through the auction gallery. You can contact Professional Appraisers and Liquidators Antique Auction Gallery at 352-795-2061 or 800-542-3877 or via email: webuyit@tampabay.rr.com, for further information or to request a brochure.

Auctioneer, Charles Fudge, of Professional Appraisers & Liquidator's Antique Auctions has been bringing the finest Antiques, Fine Art and Collectibles to dealers and collectors alike for over 40 years. Their 7500 square foot climate controlled antique gallery in Crystal River, Florida, has easy access via major highways and airports. The firm purchases estates and collections outright or will accept them on consignment.

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Note to Press: If you'd like an interview with Auctioneer, Charles Fudge, or more information about the Renker Estate or the Antique Auction, please contact Delilah or Amy at 352-795-2061

SUMMARY: Professional Appraisers & Liquidator's Antique Auction is pleased to offer The Estate of The Late Harry Renker of Geneva, IL - Airline Pilot and International Purveyor of Fine Antiques -- with select additions -- at their gallery in Crystal River, FL, on Saturday, June 26th at 10am. Emphasis is on European and Asian / Oriental Art and Antiques including Furniture. Items of interest include KPM, Signed Wagner and other Paintings on Porcelain and Ivory and miniature portraits. Other important antique items include, Bronze, Marble & Ivory Figurines and Statues, 19th Century Paintings by Listed Artists, Antique Clocks (including Tiffany, Webster, and 19th Century Marble & Bronze French Figural Mantle Clocks), Antique Furniture ranging from the 17th Century to the Victorian Era, Antique Armor and Weaponry & Native American Indian Pottery. Unique items such as a Victorian Gilded Mother of Pearl Posy Holder or Tussie Mussie, a Russian Bronze Snuff Box, a signed Bergman Pen Holder in the form of an Owl on a Feather and other Austrian Cold Painted Bronze items and Miniatures to name a few. In addition to Floor Bidding, Real-time Internet and Absentee Bidding is available. Information, catalog and photos can be found on their website: http://www.charliefudge.com/ or by calling 352-795-2061 or 800-542-3877.

Gearing up for EXCELLENT AUCTION June 26 at 10am

FOLKS, the June auction is going to be FAN-TABULOUS! I'm finishing up the PR, the brochure and we start cataloging in 2 weeks! If you have QUALITY Antiques or Collectibles to sell or consign, get them to us YESTERDAY. We need them A.S.A.P if you are going to be included in our advertising. The auction will, of course, have live bidding in our auction gallery, it will have on-line internet bidding, and we accept absentee and telephone bidding.

Photos are coming soon as is more info, but in the meantime, check http://www.charliefudge.com for further info

By the way, the clock in the photo is TIFFANY & CO of New York from an estate in the Chicago suburbs. There are too many items to even start to list them! I suggest you just check out the website for now!

Professional Appraisers & Liquidators Gears Up for Huge Winter Antiques & Fine Art Auction

PROFESSIONAL APPRAISERS & LIQUIDATORS, LLC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Professional Appraisers & Liquidators Gears Up for Huge Winter Antiques & Fine Art Auction

Rare items including a 19th Century Indo-Persian Battle Helmet, a Punched Tin Pie Safe made exclusively for General Mills, a Sterling Silver Veilleuse-Theiere Teapot will cross the auction block in Crystal River this Saturday. These items as well as many other fine Antiques, 19th and 20th Century European and American Art, & Collectibles will be up for auction at Professional Appraisers and Liquidator's first sale of the year.

Crystal River, FL February 23, 2010 - A Fabulous Winter Season Antique Auction will be conducted by Charles Fudge of Professional Appraisers & Liquidators in Crystal River, Florida on Saturday February 27th at the firm's US Highway 19 Gallery. Highlights of the auction will be over 75 lots of 19th and 20th Century American and European Art, as well as over 100 lots of Antique Furniture to include Victorian, Period, Primitive, with a sprinkling of Mid Century Modern. As always, Estate Jewelry will also be a main feature, with over 100 Lots of Estate Gold and Diamond Jewelry for offer, including many fine Art Deco pieces. Other items of interest are an Early 19th Century Sampler, Lamps including hanging oil lamps; and table lamps by Sale Brothers and Bradley and Hubbard,

Furniture highlights include a Federal Period 2-Part Corner Cupboard believed to be of Pennsylvanian origin. Also attributed to Pennsylvania is the Butternut Jelly Cupboard with locking doors and drawers. Of Southern origin is a Walnut Sugar Chest from the Early 1800s with a Fishtail Hinged Lid and Dove-Tailed case and a 19th Century Pegged Leg Oak Harvest Table with Bread Board ends, and a Step-Back Cupboard. Not to exclude the Mid Century Modern Era, the auction will feature chairs designed by Ray and Charles Eames, manufactured by Herman Miller and a complete dining room suite by Bernhardt. Auctioneer Fudge says, "Of all the furniture, the piece I am most excited about is the, possibly one-of-a-kind, Punched Tin Pie Safe made exclusively for General Foods Company, with the corporation's logo of G.F. Co molded into the tin panels on each side.

Another item one might call rare the an Indo-Persian Battle Helmet dating to Pre-1850, which has its gorgeous damescene or gold inlay decorations still very much intact. Helmets like this are hard to find, especially with the gold still intact. Fudge says "This is near museum quality, and since there has been an increase in collectors of Indo-Persian battle armour, we expect strong bidding on this item.

Featured Fine Art includes Paintings, Etchings, Prints and Statues. Paintings by American Listed Artists include "Arrival of Spring" by Andrew Thomas Schwartz, a Landscape by Ernest Parton, a Coastal Landscape entitled "Turn of the Tide" by Charles Bridgeman Vickery, an Oil on Canvas entitled "Ancient Quarter" by Frank A. Brown, a Landscape by Peter Edward Rudell and an Alaskan Scene by Leonard Moore Davis, noted Landscape painter, muralist and illustrator with a specialty in Alaskan scenes dating back to the 19th Century. European Art enthusiasts will enjoy a 19th Century painting depicting boats on a lake at sunset by British Listed Artist, James Francis Danby, a watercolor entitled "Floral Arrangement" by Russian artist, Boris Vassiloff, and two 19th Century Oil on Panel paintings by Italian, Gaetano Mormile, whose works were included in Sotheby's Old Master and 19th Century European Art Auction. Also of note, is the Oil on Canvas painting, "Standing Nude" by Hungarian American portrait artist, Pal Fried. Fried is noted for having painted celebrities such as Will Rogers, Marilyn Monroe, and the Gabor Sisters. In addition to bronze statues by Listed Artists, Madeline LeFabre and 19th Century,Eugene Antoine Aizelin, both French, are Cold Painted Austrian Vienna Bronzes by famous sculptor, Franz Bergman, which include Lizards and an outstanding Cobra. Ivory statues include a Polychromed Ivory Woodsman and Oriental Lady and ivory Netsukes include everything from a meerkat to erotica.

Among the American Art Pottery will be Roseville Art Pottery including a hard to find Pink Snowberry Vase. From across the pond, L. Hjorth's pottery from the Island of Bornholm in Denmark, will be represented. However, the highlight of the pottery category is sure to be the Weller Jardiniere and Pedestal in the Baldin (Apple) Pattern, an item can be quite difficult to find.

Spectacular Sterling Silver will cross the block as well, coming from famous Silversmiths such as 18th Century George Schofield in the form of a Georgian gadrooned sauce boat bearing a 1789 date mark, and 19th Century Holland Aldwinkle and Slater's glorious Repousse 2-handled Centerpiece bowl, which is one of the finest the firm has seen. Other makers of Sterling Silver for auction are Tiffany, Gorham, Reed and Barton. Certainly most unique is the Gustave Keller 950 Fine French Silver Arts and Crafts version of a Veilleuse-Theiere, complete with tea strainer in the spout of the individual teapot. The word "veilleuse-theire: loosely translates to a nightlight teapot. According to "An Illustrated Dictionary of Silverware--Harold Newman-1987" they were originally made to be used at the bedside to keep food warm for a invalid or an infant, the veileuse was similarly used in the bedroom for keeping warm a beverage for one person.

Collectibles include Hummel, Goebel, Lladro, Royal Doulton and Swarovski Figurines. Art Glass, Brilliant Period Cut Glass, Porcelain, Clocks, Rugs and many other interesting antiques will also be represented in Saturday's sale. Says Auctioneer Fudge, "We expect a nice in-house crowd, coupled with internet bidders. When you have outstanding, fresh-to-market antiques and collectibles, people will buy no matter what the economy. If the economy is weak, people look harder for a good buy, and let's face it, we have some very unique items in this auction that collectors may never see again. They'll want to cease the moment."

Previews for Saturday's Auction are as follows: Friday, February 26th from 10am to 5pm and Saturday morning from 8am until auction announcements begin at approximately 8:45 am. Other hours are available by appointment. The auction starts promptly at 10 o'clock. Potential bidders are encouraged to preview either live or via the photos for each item, which can be found on the auction gallery's website. Internet bidding is available via http://liveauctioneers.com/catalog/20458 or http://proxibid.com/charliefudge. Absentee and telephone bidding are also welcome. For further information on this auction, or to speak to Professional Appraisers and Liquidators about consignments, please see www.charliefudge.com or call 800-542-3877.
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AUTHOR'S CONTACT INFO:
Diane Fudge,Public Relations (352) 382-2120 cfudge@tampabay.rr.com

BUSINESS CONTACT:
Charles Fudge, Auctioneer
811 SE US Highway 19
Crystal River, FL 34429
Tel: 352-795-2061 //Cell Phone: 727-385-6109
http://www.charliefudge.com // Email: webuyit@tampabay.rr.com