Thomaston Place Auction Galleries has once again made headlines with an extraordinary find—a 17th-century portrait 'after Rembrandt', discovered in an attic during a routine estate visit in Camden, Maine. The painting, depicting a young girl in traditional Dutch attire, fetched an astounding $1.4 million, breaking auction records in Maine and solidifying Thomaston Place's reputation as a leader in the art world.

What started as a typical house call to a private estate in Camden, Maine, soon turned into a once-in-a-lifetime discovery for Kaja Veilleux, the gallery's founder and a seasoned appraiser with over 50 years of experience in New England’s fine art scene.

"We often go in blind on house calls, not knowing what we’ll find," Veilleux said.

Among a collection of heirlooms and antiques, tucked away in the attic, was a stunning portrait of a teenage girl, her serene expression framed by a ruffled white collar and cap. The artwork, painted on a cradled oak panel and encased in a hand-carved Dutch frame, displayed impeccable preservation for its age.

A label affixed to the verso of the portrait attributed it to Rembrandt and referenced its previous display at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in 1970. Recognizing the piece’s significance, Thomaston Place added it to their annual Summer Grandeur sale. The auction, a three-day event featuring over 1,500 lots of fine art and collectibles, would soon witness a bidding war unlike any other.

On the second day of the sale, nine of Thomaston Place’s team members manned the phones, with bidders from around the globe. As the price soared, three determined phone bidders remained, driving the final sale into the millions. Ultimately, Zebulon Casperson, representing the winning European bidder, secured the piece for a staggering $1.4 million. Reflecting on the experience, Casperson shared, "Out of all the phone bids I’ve handled, I never imagined I’d help close a deal for over a million dollars. It feels like a shared victory."

This record-breaking sale marked a significant milestone for Thomaston Place Auction Galleries, further cementing its status as Northern New England's premier auction house. With its dedication to uncovering hidden gems and bringing rare and valuable works to market, the gallery continues to attract global attention from collectors and experts alike.

In an interview with WMTW, Channel 8, Veilleux said, "To me, it's about protecting and bringing this art to light so it's protected, cared for, and preserved."

Beyond high-profile sales like this, Thomaston Place remains committed to serving local communities with its free valuation services and charitable fundraising events. As Kaja Veilleux and his team continue to discover treasures hidden in estates across New England, one can only imagine what historic finds may emerge next. What's in your attic?

Thomaston Place Auction Galleries is set to host its 2024 Summer Grandeur auction. The auction will be held August 23 to August 25, 2024. This highly anticipated event features an impressive array of Maine art, rare Moxie collectibles, sport and heavy equipment vehicles, and an unique decorative items. This year’s live summer auction promises to deliver a remarkable blend of antique, vintage, and modern pieces. It's an event you won't want to miss.

Highlighting Maine's Artistic Heritage

Among the exceptional Maine artwork featured in this auction is a watercolor painting of a derelict schooner in Camden, ME, by Jamie Wyeth. He created it when he was just 12 years old. A circa 1870 graphite drawing titled “Boy with Cap” by Winslow Homer will be showcased, as well as works by renowned artists such as Don Stone, Lynne Drexler, Andrew Winter, Imero Gobbato, Jay Hall Connaway, Bernard Langlais, William Thon, Emily Muir, Charles Greenough “Chippy” Chase, Frederic Kellogg, and others. These pieces provide a rich representation of Maine’s artistic legacy and are sure to captivate collectors and art enthusiasts alike.

Moxie Collectibles: A Nostalgic Journey

One of the standout features of this auction is the offering of one of the largest private collections of Moxie advertising and memorabilia. This includes vintage pieces from Moxie imitators, such as an embossed tin Moxie Hall of Fame sign with the slogan “Eclipses Everything Drink Moxie Distinctly Different,” a circa 1910 tin exterior sign for Phenix, and a rare circa 1933 tin sign depicting the trademark Moxie horse-mobile passing a billboard. These nostalgic items provide a unique glimpse into the history of one of America’s iconic brands.

Sport and Heavy Equipment Vehicles

For those with an interest in vehicles, the live auction will feature eleven sport and heavy equipment vehicles, including a 2017 Toyota Tacoma SR5 double cab pick-up truck, a Yamaha Big Bear 400 ATV, a 2015 GMC 3500 snow plow truck, a John Deere MDL 3038E tractor with loader and bush cutter, and a 1920s era fishing guide boat and trailer. This diverse selection is sure to appeal to both collectors and those looking for functional equipment.

Items of Historic Significance

The auction will also present items of historic interest, such as a circa 1862 gangway board from the USS Hartford, the steam/sail flagship of Admiral David Glasgow Farragut during the Civil War. An 1864 appointment signed by President Abraham Lincoln, naming J.H. Goodenow of Maine as U.S. Consul General to Constantinople, a 19th-century portrait of Brunswick, ME, shipbuilder and sea captain Anthony Morse, and a handcrafted model of the Steamboat “Castine” are among the historically significant items that will be available.

Modern and Antique Furniture

A large selection of modern design furniture will be featured, including a Brutalist design mixed metal console table by Paul Evans Jr., a “Power Play” chair and ottoman by Frank Gehry for Knoll, Herman Miller leather upholstered Eames chairs with ottomans, and a midcentury teak flip-top bar by Torbjorn Afdal for Mellamstrands Mobelfabrik of Norway. The auction will also include fine custom furniture such as an Italian chinoiserie painted two-part secretary desk, a set of six custom Queen Anne style mahogany dining chairs by Karges Furniture Co., and a Chesterfield sofa upholstered in maroon leather. Noteworthy antique furniture lots include a 19th-century French Neoclassical bronze and malachite gueridon table, an American Queen Anne period cherry highboy, and a Hepplewhite period inlaid mahogany huntboard form butler’s desk.

Modernist Masterpieces and More

The auction also boasts an excellent selection of modernist works, including “Mujer” (Woman), a 1945 painting by Amelia Pelaez, and Andy Warhol’s “Mammy,” a signed and numbered limited edition artist proof screenprint. The collection extends to works by Edward Willis Redfield, Scott Leighton, John Sargeant Noble, Albert Pinkham Ryder, James Fitzgerald, George Inness, and John Singleton Copley, offering a diverse and extensive array of art that spans various styles and periods.

Exquisite Jewelry and Silver Collection

The jewelry category will not disappoint, with items such as a loose 2.92-carat round brilliant cut diamond, a ladies Art Deco style 14K white gold aquamarine & diamond ring, and an 18K yellow gold choker necklace set with five brilliant cut diamonds by Shreve Crump & Low. The gold and silver collection will feature an 80-piece set of Georg Jensen sterling flatware in the Scroll/Saga pattern, a Russian silver and cloisonné enamel loving cup by Feodor Ruckert, and a 1930s Meriden silver-plate Boston Lighthouse design cocktail shaker.

Fine Art Pottery and Glass

A notable collection of fine art pottery created by Brother Thomas Bezanson and lovingly cared for by the monastic community at Weston Priory will be sold, featuring 31 lots. The auction will also offer an extensive selection of fine art glass, including pieces by Tiffany Studios, Daum Nancy, De Vez, Galle, and Thomas Webb.

Exceptional Asian Artifacts

Among the many fine Asian lots are a signed Japanese Edo Period six-panel screen by School of Hokusai artist Gakyojin Hokusai, depicting a battle scene during the 1592 Japanese invasion of Korea, and a Balinese Imperial quality 22K gold and jeweled kris handle. These exceptional artifacts reflect the rich cultural heritage of their origins and are sure to be highly sought after.

Diverse and Unique Offerings

Other items of interest in the auction include a Steinway Model B grand piano, a life-size copper exterior mounted elk’s head, and a large selection of string instruments, including sixteen vintage guitars. The auction will also feature excellent selections of marine items, tea caddies, decoys, weathervanes, early lighting, and oriental carpets, ensuring there is something for everyone.

Preview and Auction Details

The auction will begin at 11:00 a.m. EST each day. The gallery will be open for previews on Saturday, August 10 and August 17, from noon to 4:00 p.m., and Monday through Friday, August 12-16, and Monday through Thursday, August 19-22, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Previewing will also be available on auction days, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, August 23–25, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

All lots are available for viewing on Thomaston Place Auction Galleries’ website at www.thomastonauction.com. Live in-person bidding, telephone, absentee, and online bidding on three internet platforms will be available for this auction.

About Thomaston Place Auction Galleries

Thomaston Place Auction Galleries is Northern New England’s premier international auction company, located on U.S. Route 1 in Thomaston, ME. Known for their expertise in discovering antique and fine art treasures, they offer free valuations each Tuesday at the gallery, create fundraiser events for civic and charitable organizations, and provide house call appraisal services. Their skill in researching and marketing antiques and fine art has earned Thomaston Place the respect of buyers, collectors, and experts worldwide.

Conclusion

Thomaston Place Auction Galleries’ 2024 Summer Grandeur auction is set to be an extraordinary event, offering a wide array of rare and valuable items that span various categories and time periods. Whether you are a collector, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for something unique, this auction has something to offer. Mark your calendars for August 23, 24, and 25, 2024, and be sure to take advantage of the preview days to experience these exceptional items firsthand.

The recent "Summer Splendor" auction at Thomaston Place Auction Galleries, held on June 28, 29, and 30, proved to be a remarkable success, drawing attention from collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide. The event featured significant collections from Brother Thomas Bezanson and the estate of the late singer-songwriter Dan Fogelberg, generating nearly $1.2 million in sales with additional post-auction offers still coming in.

Highlights of the Auction

Brother Thomas Bezanson Collection:
Brother Thomas Bezanson (1929-2007), a renowned ceramic artist, was one of the central attractions of the auction. His works, created during his time at Vermont’s Weston Priory, received overwhelming interest and fierce bidding. The collection of 31 ceramics significantly exceeded pre-sale estimates, totaling $60,200 compared to a median pre-sale estimate of $39,200. Standout pieces included:

• A 1970s era tenmoku glazed meiping form vase with wax resist, fetching $8,400 (estimated $1,500-$2,500).
• A canteen form vase with honan tenmoku glaze, selling for $5,700 (estimated $1,500-$2,000).
• A bulbous porcelain vase with dark copper red and blue glaze, achieving $4,200 (estimated $1,500-$2,500).

The remaining items from Brother Thomas' collection will be featured in the upcoming August 23, 24, and 25 auction.

Dan Fogelberg Estate:
Items from Dan Fogelberg’s Deer Isle, ME estate also captivated bidders. Noteworthy sales included:

• A watercolor painting by Robert Wyland depicting a whale mother and calf, which sold for $12,000 (estimated $4,500-$6,500).
• A pair of Italian sterling silver dolphin form candlesticks by Buccellati, bringing in $6,875 (estimated $2,000-$2,500).
• A still life painting by contemporary artist Louise Lans, selling for $4,687 (estimated $1,000-$1,500).
• A Germantown Serrate Navajo blanket, achieving $4,375 (estimated $600-$800).

Top Lots and Exceptional Results

The highest-selling item of the auction was an impressionistic oil on canvas painting titled "Beechwoods" by Emil Carlsen (1853-1932), which garnered $31,250, surpassing its pre-sale estimate of $8,000-$12,000. Other notable art sales included:

• A portrait of a young woman by William Merritt Chase (1849-1916), selling for $15,000 (estimated $5,000-$7,000).
• A scenic painting of the Grand Tetons by Albert Bierstadt (1830-1902), fetching $11,250 (estimated $7,000-$9,000).
• "The Battle of the Mona Passage 19 April 1782," an oil on canvas by Thomas Elliot (active 1790-1800), achieving $10,000 (estimated $7,000-$9,000).

Jewelry and Fine Objects:
The auction also featured an 18K yellow gold chalice in a Tiffany & Co. leather presentation box, which was highly sought after and sold for $27,500 (estimated $7,500-$8,500).

Jewelry highlights included:

• An 18K gold bracelet with oval cabochon amethysts by Mario Buccellati, fetching $17,500 (estimated $5,000-$7,000).
• A 1715 Fleet Shipwreck 8-Escudo gold coin mounted in a 14K gold pendant frame with sapphire, selling for $12,500 (estimated $6,000-$8,000).
• A Buccellati signed 18K gold mounted cushion cut amethyst ring surrounded by cabochon blue sapphires, achieving $10,625 (estimated $2,000-$3,000).

Other Significant Sales

Additional items of interest included a Steinway Model O grand piano with a tiger mahogany case, which sold for $18,000 (estimated $15,000-$20,000), and a Revolutionary War period leather wallet with Continental currency, which achieved $12,000 (estimated $300-$400).

Thriving Online and Phone Participation

In addition to the enthusiastic gallery audience, the auction saw substantial participation from thousands of bidders worldwide who joined live by phone and online. The auction was live-streamed, allowing collectors and enthusiasts from around the globe to engage in the bidding process in real-time. This extensive reach and accessibility underscored the global appeal and prestige of Thomaston Place Auction Galleries, ensuring competitive bidding and impressive final sale prices across a diverse array of items.

Looking Ahead

Thomaston Place Auction Galleries continues to uphold its reputation as Northern New England’s premier international auction company. Located on U.S. Route 1 in Thomaston, ME, the gallery is recognized for discovering antique and fine art treasures, offering free appraisals each Tuesday, and creating fundraiser events for civic and charitable organizations. The gallery's next major fine art and antique sale is scheduled for August 23, 24, and 25, 2024.

For a complete list of auction results and more information about upcoming events, visit Thomaston Place Auction Galleries.

Experience the Legacy of Dan Fogelberg

Thomaston, ME – On June 28, 29, and 30, 2024, Thomaston Place Auction Galleries will offer a remarkable selection of items from the Deer Isle, ME estate of the late musician Dan Fogelberg (1951-2007). This exclusive auction presents a unique opportunity to own a piece of Fogelberg’s eclectic collection, reflecting his diverse artistic tastes and rich life experiences.

“We're honored to have the opportunity to handle Fogelberg’s amazing collections from his home in Maine.”  

Kaja Veilleux, Thomaston Place owner and auctioneer

Fogelberg, renowned for hits like “Same Old Lang Syne,” “Leader of the Band,” “Longer,” and “Run for the Roses,” was a versatile multi-instrumentalist. He achieved great success with seven platinum albums and was inducted into multiple halls of fame, including the Colorado Music Hall of Fame in 2017. Fogelberg's deep connection to Maine is immortalized in his song “The Reach,” a beloved tribute to the state's coastal life.

Highlights of the Auction

The auction will feature a wide array of exquisite items, including:

• European Sculpture and Prints: A Carrara marble sculpture by Cesare Lapini (1848-1893) depicting a young Neapolitan fisherman and a circa 1652 etching titled “Faust” by Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn (1606-1669).
• Native American Artifacts: A 19th Century Sioux beaded and quilled pipe bag and an early 20th Century Navajo Germantown eye dazzler rug.
• Fine Art: A beautiful watercolor of a grey whale mother and calf by Robert Wyland (1956-).
• Decorative Arts: A pair of Buccellati Italian sterling silver dolphin form candlesticks and a man’s moose skin fringed and beaded jacket by the Overland Sheepskin Co.

About Thomaston Place Auction Galleries

Thomaston Place Auction Galleries is Northern New England’s premier international auction company, known for discovering antique and fine art treasures. The gallery offers free appraisals each Tuesday, organizes fundraising events for civic and charitable organizations, and provides house call appraisal services. Their expertise in antiques and fine art has earned them a stellar reputation among buyers, collectors, and experts worldwide.

How to Bid In A Live Auction

Bidding in the live auction is accessible and convenient for everyone. You can participate in live in-person bidding at the Gallery, or opt for remote bidding options such as telephone, absentee, or online bidding. To place a bid online, visit www.live.thomastonauction.com and register for an account. Once registered and approved for bidding, browse the virtual catalog, choose the items you're interested in, and select your bid. Feel free to call 207-354-8141 with anu auction or bidding questions.

We are excited to have you join our upcoming auction! Here’s a quick guide on how you can participate in the bidding process:

1. Phone or Absentee Bidding (Recommended):

• In Person Registration: Visit our front desk to register for phone or absentee bidding.
• Register By Email: Complete the registration form, then either scan or take a photo of it and email it back to us. Alternatively, you can call us at 207-354-8141 to provide the necessary information over the phone.
  • Phone Bidding: Choose your desired lots and specify your highest bid amount. During the live auction, we will call you just before your item is up for bid, allowing you to bid in real-time through one of our staff members acting as your proxy.
  • Absentee Bidding: If you can’t attend the live auction, our staff will bid on your behalf based on your provided preferences.
  • In-Person Visits: You are also welcome to visit the Gallery in person during the auction dates to experience the event firsthand and get assistance with your bids. Visiting us during the auction preview to register will save time on the day of the action and ensure you are registered and approved well in advance.

Please Note: The buyer's premium for bids placed through the front desk is 20%.

2. Online Bidding:

• Creating an Account: Visit this page to create a new account.
• Registration: Follow the steps to set up your account. We will process your registration within a few days and email you with your initial bid approval amount.
• Placing a Bid: Log in to your account, explore the auction, select the item you wish to bid on, click “Leave Bid,” and complete the bid details.

Please Note: The buyer's premium for online bids is 25%, which includes the cost of the online bidding platform.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please call us at 207-354-8141. Here's a direct link to the items from the Dan Fogelberg Estate.

Thomaston Place Auction Galleries Live Auctioneer’s Auction Highlights:

If you're searching for an "estate auction near me," look no further! Thomaston Auction Place Galleries' first major sale and live auction of the summer will feature amazing collections of fine art and decorative rarities, including items from the Maine estate of songwriter and singer Dan Fogelberg (1951 - 2007). Fans of Dan Fogelberg songs will appreciate the unique opportunity to own a piece from his personal collection, making this estate auction even more special.

Additionally, we will have many important pieces from the Weston Priory (VT) archive of ceramics created by Brother Thomas Bezanson (1929-2007) while he was part of the monastic community between 1959 and the early 1980s.

To kick off the weekend auction, on Friday, June 28 we will present excellent selections of weapons and militaria, decoys, sports memorabilia & ephemera, toys, Japanese artifacts, and jewelry.

The live weekend auction continues on June 29. On Saturday the auction will include early paintings & sculpture, pre-Victorian furniture, Native American antiques, marine items, and Chinese artifacts.

And on the final day of the weekend, Sunday, June 30 we will offer a nicely curated group of fine art and decorative items from the 1850s through the 20th Century.

Live Auction Weekend Highlights:

· Cheyenne Native American 1870s fringed and beaded war shirt

· Steinway & Sons Model B grand piano

· Pair of 19th Century Blackamoor carved fantasy armchairs

· Circa 1910-25 double flag stargazer carousel horse by Parker Company

· Grand Tetons painting by Albert Bierstadt (1830-1902)

· LC Smith Crown Grade SxS 12-gauge shotgun

· Tiffany & Co. gold chalice

· Bronze sculpture by Bessie Potter Vonnoh (1872-1955)

· 1980 Moto Guzzi Le Mans CX 100 motorcycle

· 18K gold bracelet with cabochon amethyst by Mario Buccellati

How to Participate in the Auction:

Participating in a live auction at Thomaston Place Auction Galleries is straightforward and accessible, whether you are a seasoned bidder or a newcomer, even if you aren't in Maine that weekend.

Here's how you can join in:

1. Registration: Before you can bid, you need to register. You can do this in person at the Gallery in Thomaston, Maine, online through our website, or by phone. Make sure you have a valid ID and payment information ready.
2. Preview: We offer a preview period where you can inspect the items in person. For this auction, the preview timings are as follows June 15 - 27th, 2024: Saturday 12-4 pm, Monday-Thursday 9 am-4 pm. This is a great opportunity to see the items up close, register to bid and ask any questions you might have so you can bid with confidence. If you can't visit the Gallery, you may contact us to ask questions about specific lot items.
3. Bidding Options: You can participate in the auction in several ways:
   • In-Person: Join us at the Gallery on the auction day. Our staff will assist you with the bidding process. Visiting us during the auction preview to register will save time on the day of the action and ensure you are registered and approved well in advance.
   • Online: Bid live in the auction from the comfort of your home through our online platform. Ensure you are registered and logged in before the auction begins. You are also able to place your bids in advance from the online platform.
   • Phone Bidding: Arrange to bid by phone with one of our staff members. This can be done by contacting us ahead of the auction. Our staff will call you just before your desired lot is up for bid and allow you to bid in real time over the phone.
   • Absentee Bidding: If you can't attend or be on a call during the auction, you can place an absentee bid. Submit your maximum bid in advance, and our auctioneer will bid on your behalf.
4. Payment and Collection: If you win an item at the live auction, payment can be made by credit card, check, or wire transfer. After payment, you can collect your items in person or arrange for shipping. We offer assistance with packing and shipping to ensure your items reach you safely. We recommend obtaining a shipping estimate in advance to avoid any surprises in cost. Our team at the auction gallery can assist you with packing and shipping arrangements to ensure your items are delivered safely and efficiently.

Thomaston Place Auction Galleries is committed to providing an enjoyable and transparent weekend auction experience. Whether you're looking to acquire unique art pieces or rare collectibles, our team is here to help you every step of the way. Happy bidding!