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2015 Art Auction - The Place To Find Equine Treasures



This year’s Art, Antique and Rare Book Auction will offer an exciting variety of artwork, collectibles, out of print books and historic artifacts at its July sale.  Included are eighteen pieces by George Ford Morris, eleven of those being original works.  A total of twenty-five different artists are represented in the 65 lots dating from the 1800s to present day.  Interested parties will find some beautiful trophies and memorabilia with historic significance, 18 lots of vintage advertising, photographs and collectibles, several equine antiques, 1 stunning fountain, 7 lots of out-of-print books, 5 sculptures, artwork that is both historically and artistically significant, and artwork that is whimsical, decorative or that makes a statement.   

“Each year we are amazed at the variety and quality of offerings that are presented” says Tolley Graves, the event’s coordinator. “The subject matter has been broadened this year and I think many people will be surprised at the nature and quality of the pieces that are being offered.”

Some of the interesting items that will go up on the block are a vintage Cole Bros. Circus lithograph featuring a Saddlebred; a magnificent bronze sculpture of the legendary Rex McDonald; a vintage TV lamp featuring a Saddlebred as a circus horse; a gorgeous pair of antique andirons made from horse shoes and brass harness hames; paintings and sculptures by 11 gifted contemporary artists, 6 of whom are first-time consignors; 11 original pieces by George Ford Morris, including oils, a watercolor and several charcoals.  We even have an unused Lilly Pulitzer bag in Carson Kressley’s Grandstand design – signed by Carson!

The auction will be held on Saturday July 11, 2015 at the Museum’s Showplace for Saddlebreds (at the Kentucky Horse Park) at 12:00 Noon – the week of the Lexington Jr. League Horse Show.  Items can be previewed on Friday from 9 am – 6 pm, and on Saturday morning prior to the auction.  The Horse Park is an easy 15 minute drive from the show grounds.  Anyone needing directions is urged to call the Museum.

All of the consignments are available for viewing on the Museum’s website asbmuseum.org. If you wish to receive a hard-copy catalog by mail, please call or email the museum (859-259-2746 ext. 305 or [email protected]). If you cannot be present but wish to bid on an item, telephone bids can be made with advance arrangements. The auction will also be accessible online this year through liveauctioneers.com. Those who are interested in bidding online are urged to sign up at least 48 hours in advance of the auction.  For more information, contact Tolley Graves at 859-259-2746 ext 304 or [email protected].

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