Among the paintings on offer will be 22 from popular artist Harry Frier (1849-1921) who was famed for his West Country scenes. His work is extremely popular in the saleroom and much pre-sale interest is anticipated.
Many of the pictures have come from a private collection including a rather amusing image entitled “Biting Criticism.”
The artist had set up his easel on the Quantocks ready to paint a landscape when he was mobbed by over enthusiastic Exmoor ponies.
The hapless Frier had to beat a hasty retreat abandoning his easel and brushes in the process, which were duly destroyed by the inquisitive ponies.
Frier sent a bill to the landowner for his losses and by way of receipt sketched a drawing of the ponies wreaking mayhem.
A more conventional Frier offering is a watercolour signed and dated 1903 depicting the Cross Keys Inn from the East at Norton Fitzwarren, near Taunton. It is guided at £200-£250.
Other images include views of Clovelly, Chagford, Minehead, Bathpool and St Margaret’s Almshouses in Taunton.
A work by acclaimed West Country artist Robert Lenkiewicz is also included in the sale. The oil on canvas is guided at £1,200-£1,500.
The sale is on view on Saturday, July 28, at The Octagon Salerooms, East Reach, Taunton, from 9am-12.30pm.
There are further opportunities to view on Tuesday, July 31, and Wednesday, August 1, from 9am-5pm as well as prior to the sale from 8.30am on Thursday, August 2. The sale commences at 10am.
As well as a significant section of West Country art the auction will also feature jewellery, silverware ceramics and furniture.
Among the items is a beautiful Rene Lalique “Poissons” opalescent glass charger. Until recently it had been used as a fruit bowl as the vendor was unaware of its true merit.
It is moulded with fish and bubbles and acid etcthed, 'R Lalique France.’ It is guided at £150-£200.
A fine Georgian style silver spirit kettle is a notable addition to the silver section. The pretty piece with embossed decoration has a pre-sale estimate of £450-£550.
In addition to the regular monthly sale the auctioneers are also holding a timed auction devoted exclusively to automobilia.
This is entirely on line and runs until 10pm on August 6. For more information please contact the saleroom on 01823 332525.
