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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For those who have never participated in a live auction, it can seem a bit overwhelming at first.
The fast-paced bidding, the auctioneer's chant, and the excitement of the competition might feel intimidating.
But fear not!
With a little preparation and understanding, you can confidently step into the world of live auctions and even walk away with some incredible finds.
What is a live auction? A live auction is an event where items are sold to the highest bidder in real-time. Participants gather, either in person or online, to place their bids on various lots—items or groups of items up for auction. An auctioneer facilitates the event, calling out bids and managing the flow of the auction. The auction progresses quickly, with bidders raising their paddles or clicking online to indicate their interest and bids. The highest bid at the fall of the auctioneer's hammer wins the item.
A lot of new auction participants wonder what do do if they can't attend the live auction on site. This is where phone and absentee bidding come in.
What is phone bidding? When phone bidding, a staff member will call just before your item is up, so you can bid in real-time through the staff member over the phone.
What is absentee bidding? Absentee bidding lets you place your maximum bid in advance, with an option for a +1 increment to outbid others if there's a tie at your highest bid.
Both methods ensure you can participate in the auction even if you can't attend in person. Of these two options, we recommend phone bidding. It gives you the best opportunity to be the highest bidder since you'll know in real time if you've been outbid and can decide if you want to bid higher.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about bidding at Thomaston Place Auction Galleries, from registration to winning strategies, so you can bid with confidence and success.
Visit our front desk to register. Fill out your contact information and receive a bid card with your paddle number for the auction.
Recommended for those who can't attend in person
During the live auction, we will call you just before your item is up, allowing you to bid in real-time through one of our staff members acting as your agent. Download, complete, and return the registration form.
Provide information on the lots you want to bid on and the highest bid you are willing to place. Indicate if you would like a +1, which allows the agent to go up to the next increment if there is a tie at your highest bid. Download, complete, and return the absentee bid form.
We offer the ThomastonLive app (Apple App Store, Google Play) and website for easy, convenient, and secure online bidding. You can place bids ahead of time or join the live-streamed auction on the appointed day to bid live.
Visit our website to create a new account. 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, which may appear on your profile as “Pending Bidder Approval.”
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 when registering to bid online:
If you are the highest bidder when the auctioneer's hammer falls, you will receive an invoice detailing the final bid amount, buyer’s premium, and applicable taxes. Provide payment in person, by mail, by wire transfer (required for invoices over $25,000), or online using our secure payment portal.
Sales tax depends on how you receive your lot(s). We add a local Maine state sales tax of 5.5% for items picked up at the gallery. If you are shipping, we add the local sales tax associated with your shipping address instead. Tax exempt individuals should provide a copy of their Resale Certificate.
Once you make the payment, schedule a time to pick up at our gallery. If you require shipping, email our Shipping Department. We offer professional packing and shipping services at the buyer's expense.
Follow our auctions and bid anywhere using the ThomastonLive app. It's free, secure, and convenient.
Download on Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.
Participating in a live auction can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience. Follow the tips and guidelines in this article to prepare yourself to navigate the auction process confidently and successfully. Remember to do your research, set a budget, and stay calm and focused during the auction. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact us at Thomaston Place Auction Galleries. Our friendly staff is always here to help.
For any questions, feel free to call us at 207-354-8141.
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.
The auction will feature a wide array of exquisite items, including:
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.
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):
Please Note: The buyer's premium for bids placed through the front desk is 20%.
2. Online Bidding:
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.
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.
· 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
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:
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!