An Ark Full of Americana Gems
Americana and folk art go hand-in-hand in this week’s curated Americana auction, much like the pairs of animals in a circa-1850 Noah’s Ark play set.
The finely made set, one of the few toys many children knew in the 19th century, consists of the 15 1/2-inch-long ark, seven members of Noah’s family, eight pairs of animals, 17 single animals, 18 pairs of birds and 10 single birds; a total of 86 figures. The figures are top-quality and retain their original colors. Other than having some small repairs, the set is in excellent condition. It is expected to sell for $2,200-$2,500.
Noah’s Ark set, circa 1850, total of 86 figures. The ark on its stand is 15 1/5 in. long x 10 in high. long. Estimate: $2,200-$2,500. Jasper52 image
Several gaming wheels are included in this sale. A rather curious example is a spinner arrow on a board with the names of automobile models. It appears to date to the 1940s. This whimsical game has a $500-$600 estimate.
Game board with car names – some abbreviated, from the 1940s – Nash, Cad’c, Bui’k, Pack, Chevy, 23 in. x 23 in. x 2.5 in . Estimate: $500-$600. Jasper52 image
Also having an automotive theme is a wooden whirligig that depicts an early motorist cranking to start his tin lizzie. The whirligig, in old weathered paint, has an estimate of $200-$300.
Whirligig, circa 1920, 18 1/4 in. high (on museum stand) x 20 in. wide x 15 in. deep. Estimate: $200-$300. Jasper52 image
A half dozen handmade generic signs are offered, with messages ranging from “fresh eggs” to possibly noting the location of a men’s room.
‘Gents’ sign, incised letters on thick board with good surface & original carefully worked hangers, Boston, 7 in high x 31 in. h x 31 w x 1 3/4 d c 1940s. Estimate: $300-$400. Jasper52 image
Several fine examples of chip-carved tramp art are in the catalog, topped by a large frame with mirror, which is adorned with carved stars and maple leaves. It dates to the turn of the last century and is valued at $700-$900.
Tramp art mirror with carved stars and leaves, circa 1900, 25 in. x 28.5 in. x 3 in. Estimate: $700-$900. Jasper52 image
For the fireplace, two cast brass andirons, each in the form of a lighthouse, have a mellow-colored oxidized patina.
Vintage cast brass lighthouse andirons, 13 1/2 in. high x 12 in. deep. Estimate: $600-$700. Jasper52 image
Check out the full catalog of Americana items and find your next treasure.
