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A.H. Wilkens Tries to Fill the Auction Gap
If nature abhors a vacuum so does the auction business. WIth Ritchies in bankruptcy new kid on the block A.H. Wilkens Auctions & Appraisals is stepping in to fill the gap, or would be if they could get their proverbial shit together. In my in-box this morning was a notice about the next AHW decorative arts auction, which happens to be TONIGHT! How about a bit of notice boys? Maybe a weekend-long preview to give folks a chance to peruse the goods?
Waddington’s: A Feast of Blue & White
Wednesday, December 2, 2009 by Chris
There are some fine pieces in the upcoming Waddington's Decorative Arts Sale (December 9 and 10) but what really sparked my interest was the plethora of Worcester blue and white porcelain on offer. Culled from the estate of Larry and Betty Douglas, the collection includes some Worcester transferware but most of the pieces are painted, some with very dramatic dragon motifs.
Ritchies: Back From the Brink?
Tuesday, September 22, 2009 by Chris
What a feeling of sadness came over me yesterday as I toured the nearly-empty Ritchies showroom in advance of tonight's back-from-the-brink auction. After a two-month closure and the dismissal of its entire staff, Ritchies owner and CEO Ira Hopmeyer is endeavouring to resuscitate the business with a two-day sale, tonight and tomorrow. There's precious little to be had.
Ritchies Down For the Count?
Monday, August 10, 2009 by Chris
The dealers at Toronto's St. Lawrence Antiques Market were buzzing yesterday morning with the news that Ritchies Auctioneers had laid off its staff and closed its doors, likely for good. Last month Sotheby's announced it was severing ties with Ritchies over failure to pay consignors for items sold May 25 (payment was due July 8). The two houses had been partners since 2002.
Auction Primer: Ritchies Discovery Sale
Friday, July 10, 2009 by Chris
There’s really no telling what you’ll find at a Discovery Sale. The furnishings tend toward the traditional but I sometimes see mid-century pieces on the floor. What is a sure thing is that bargains will be had. This is your guide for how to make the most of what is surely one of Toronto’s best value auctions.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010 by Chris
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