Discovery at Thomaston Place Auction Galleries
Maine’s maritime and artistic traditions have made it a vast repository of fine art and treasures accumulated over hundreds of years, and Thomaston Place Auction Galleries has been perfectly situated to present many of these items to the world marketplace.
For over 40 years, Thomaston Place Auction Galleries’ owner and auctioneer Kaja Veilleux, has discovered many important pieces in Maine estates and collections that have brought world record prices at auction. “Finding a rare or extraordinary treasure is always exhilarating, but I equally enjoy helping people appreciate the history and value of their items. Our emphasis on personal service and providing knowledge to our clients builds trust and helps clients make more informed decisions;” noted Veilleux.
During a home visit in Yarmouth, ME, Veilleux came across an 18th Century over mantel painting that was executed by a compatriot of Boston Tea Party participants. The home owners were hoping for a little extra money for renovations, but the painting brought over $600,000 – more than the total value of the house. This important work now hangs in the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, MA.
After research, it was determined that a beautiful Boston silk on linen sampler brought to Thomaston Place on a free appraisal day was wrought by Betsey Bentley, the daughter of the man who rowed Paul Revere across the river on the night of his famous ride. This fine piece fetched $465,750 – at the time, a world record auction price for a single sampler.
A rare circa 1885 carved and inlaid rosewood art folio cabinet attributed to Herter Brothers uncovered in a Maine estate sold for $121,000 and now resides in a museum.
A little known painting by American Impressionist Joseph DeCamp was shipped to Thomaston Place from Vermont for a free appraisal day evaluation and possible consignment. It brought $605,000 at auction, a record for this artist’s work.
And finally, an outstanding collection of American art recently consigned to Thomaston Place raised over $1.5 million at their recent summer 2016 auction.
Thomaston Place Auction Galleries is Maine’s premier auction and appraisal resource and a leading source of fine art, antiques and fine decorative items. They offer free appraisals every Tuesday at their Thomaston gallery, provide house call valuations, and support charitable organizations with fundraising programs. Quality auction consignments are always accepted.