The Magazine Antiques

Dorothy Doughty (1892-1962) started at Royal Worcester in 1933, her work spanned four decades with designs being produced after her death.  Most famous for her American Birds series, three-dimensional figures and groups incorporating native flowers on naturalistic plant bases, these were true limited editions, costly and difficult to produce.  Figures in this series have maintained their value over the years and their custom made wooden boxes are coveted as a necessary protector of the delicate figural compositions.  

The series of twelve dessert plates, molded in relief, were designed by Dorothy towards the end of her life but not put into production until ten years after her death. Originally retailing for $125 to $300 per plate through jewelry and high-end department stores, as self-proclaimed collector's item produced in a "limited edition" of 7,500, they are readily available on the secondary market.  I would estimate a fair market value at auction on these in the range of $20-$40 per plate.

Jorge Luis González
Certified Appraiser, Ceramics Specialist
Appraisers Association of America, Inc.

Email: info@ceramicsappraiser.com
www.ceramicsappraiser.com

The thick potting, simple decoration, small size and deep shape of the tray would indicate late 18th or early 19th century continental manufacture. The lack of crazing along with the sheen from the reflection of the flash on the glaze, overglaze enamels and gilt decoration suggest it may be hard rather than soft-paste porcelain.  The puce and pea-green undulate leaf band supported by bands, gilt lines and beads, the monogram and use of white space, showcase the influence of neoclassicism. I would suggest it is a French neoclassical porcelain calling card tray circa 1790.  The condition of the  repaired handles along with the rubbing of the gilding would severely impact the value, I'd suggest a fair market value estimate of between $150 and $300.

Jorge Luis González
Ceramics Specialist
Member, Appraisers Association of America, Inc.

Email: info@ceramicsappraiser.com
www.ceramicsappraiser.com

This canvas is signed with the initials P.H.P., and a label on the reverse states that it is by Philip Henry Poulson, however he is not listed in any of the standard reference books on artists. Another label on the back indicates that the canvas was purchased from the firm of George Rowney & Company at 52 Rathbone Place in London—a venerable artist supply company that dates to the early 19th century and is still in business today. This information combined with the subject matter, a holiday themed still life with what appears to be Imari porcelain, indicates that it is likely by an English artist working in the late 19th or early 20th century. Discoloration around the edges of the canvas that is visible in the photograph suggests that the frame is not original. The painting is an extremely pleasant still life and has an insurance value based upon size and image of $850.

Helaine Fendelman & Associates
info@helainefendelman.com
www.helainefendelman.com

This side table was designed by Donald Deskey as part of the Charak Modern line for the Boston-based Charak Furniture Company and was introduced in 1958. The base is aluminum and the top appears to be teak. It is clearly stamped "Charak Modern" under the top. A similar table by Charak Modern with a laminate top recently sold at auction for $720; based on this and some other Charak furniture prices, I would say $800 to $1,000 is a reasonable fair market price level.

READ & MULLIN LLC
31 Dunneman Ave
Charleston, SC 29403
843- 853-2113
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