I don’t run across fine Neo-Grec, ebonized, Rosewood chairs like these too often.  Each chair has a bronze plaque in the back splat, one of a male figure and the other of a female.  There is ample ormolu throughout the chair and if I were the current owner, I would try to examine the back of the lion for a possible “P.S.” stamp (Pottier & Stymus) as is true of my Egyptian Revival set.

They are most likely of New York origin and the seller’s attribution to either Pottier & Stymus or Herter Brothers isn’t a stretch due to the fine quality.  The seller is asking $5,000 for the pair with free shipping provided.  I feel that they will go unsold due to the current state of the market - Victorian and Wall Street, both.  More photos at the listing.

Related items for sale - hover mouse for more information

Grand View has the Pottier & Stymus-attributed bedstead shown to the right in their upcoming September 13th sale.

You don’t get more straightforward Neo-Grec than this - a repeating Greek Key pattern surrounding the classical-themed bronze plaque.  Like a Greek wreath split in half, either laurel or olive leaves create tassels on either side of the headboard.

The bed is constructed of Rosewood and Curly Maple, the latter of which can be seen in the footboard corners.

Grand View is saying that the canopy is an unusual form due to the large drop finials.

Bidding starts at $9,000 and expected range is $18,000 to $25,000.  More at the listing.

Related items for sale - hover mouse for more information

Brunk Auctions will be putting up the above credenza on July 12th with an expected range $3,000-$6,000.  These cabinets are a staple in the Victorian furniture auctions, yet to me they do very little more than provide a showy piece of furniture in your house - they prop up a statue or vase in grand style.

It can’t be used to store books (properly) nor can it be used to display decorative items.  Well, I guess it could, but do you hide your decorative items in a closed cabinet?  I can tell you that mine is essentially empty save for the clean bag of rags I had put there as I was cleaning it.  Nonetheless, these cabinets are show-stoppers and if I could have 10 of them, I would.

Due to the questionable utility and space-gobbling presence in your home, I would consider these cabinets the canary in the coal mine for the higher-end Victorian antique furniture market.  Even though I wouldn’t use a single piece to provide a temperature for the market, it can provide a good datapoint to set aside.  If it sells for $5-$6,000, it would be in-line with recent trends.   if it sells between $3,000-$4,000, then there is a datapoint for an even stronger buyers market than we already have.

Lot details and more photos here.

Related items for sale - hover mouse for more information