The Magazine Antiques

January 15, 2010  |  
What: German turquoise ground porcelain snuff box, 18th century
Where: Christie's New York (January 12 & 13, Interiors)
Estimate: $1,500-2,000
Sold For: $8,125

This gilt-metal snuff box is the epitomizes the rococo taste—the delicate turquoise color imitates porcelain made for Louis XV, and it has been formed in an organic shell-shape that is emblematic of the style. The interior depicts a mother pug and her three puppies—one of the most popular dogs in the 18th century that were depicted in numerous works of art during the period including a painting of Louis XIV and his heirs by Nicolas de Largillierre, and numerous portraits by Boucher.

What: Chinese Chippendale-style wall mirror, mid-18th century
Where: Skinner Boston(January 9, European Furniture & Decorative Arts)
Estimate: $800-1,200
Sold For: $42,660

This large and elaborate mirror speaks to the rarity of plate glass in the 17th and 18th centuries, which was generally reserved for nobility. The magnificent carved gilt-wood frame (though with substantial losses) that includes decoration of C-scrolls, icicles, columns, and foliage was inspired by the designs of furniture maker Thomas Chippendale, whose 1754 pattern-book The Gentleman and Cabinet-maker's Director featured a number of objects in the Chinese taste, and helped to fuel England's passion for chinoiserie.

What: Emerald glass chandelier by F. & C. Osler, 19th century
Where: Guernsey's (January 12, 13 & 14, Tavern on the Green)
Estimate: $100,000-300,000
Sold For: $82,350

The centerpiece of famed Central Park restaurant Tavern on the Green's Crystal Room, this 19th century chandelier, comprised of molded and cut glass, was originally made for the Maharaja of Udaipur in India.