This historically important Smith & Wesson cased gun was presented to Mrs. Roosevelt on her 49th birthday by her long time personal security guard and companion Earl Miller.

Fairfield Maine, September 22, 2014 – James D. Julia, Inc., one of the nation’s top ten antique auction houses, is excited to present this extraordinary piece of American history – a prized possession of America’s “First Lady of the World” – in association with the company’s upcoming three day Outstanding Firearms Auction to be held on October 7th – 9th, 2014. This Presidential-tier offering with full provenance is certain to be of great interest to scholars, firearms and history enthusiasts, as well as museums around the world, and will again showcase James D. Julia and the company’s specialists as the foremost firearms auction company in the world.

This firearm, lot #3173, estimated conservatively at $45,000-65,000, is equally outstanding for its design, comprehensive documentation, and backstory. The .22 caliber, blue finished gun has a 6″ barrel, partridge front sight, and a round top frame with an adjustable rear sight. It is detailed with smooth two-piece pearl grips, its original silver medallion, and diamond checkered, matched numbered walnut grips. It is housed in a distributor supplied, green velvet lined, brown leatherette covered hard case; its interior is recessed for the revolver. The case also includes a nickeled brass pocket cleaning rod and a small collapsible screwdriver. The silver plaque on the lid is engraved “OCT. 11, 1933 / May your aims always be perfect / EARL”. The lot is accompanied by an extensive collection of related ephemera, including a 1974 notarized affidavit about the firearm from John A. Roosevelt, Mrs. Roosevelt’s youngest son; a copy of Mrs. Roosevelt’s pistol permit from the State of New York; copies of Roosevelt family photographs; magazine articles; and other letters and paperwork.
The Roosevelt family story is integral to the legacy of America and is again in the spotlight with the new Ken Burns’ documentary, The Roosevelts: An Intimate History, currently airing on PBS stations across the country. It is interesting to note that Mrs. Roosevelt was a good markswoman and often carried a handgun in the glove compartment of her car, especially when she was driving unaccompanied. She received this firearm, and learned her shooting skills, from Earl Miller, her bodyguard, who was assigned to her in 1928 when Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected New York State Governor. Miller was a highly accomplished individual; his professional experience included being a New York State Trooper, WWI and WWII Navy Veteran, middleweight boxing champion and an alternate to the 1920 United States Olympic boxing team, and professional body guard to national politicians. He also taught Mrs. Roosevelt equestrian, tennis, and swimming skills.

According to J.R. LaRue, James D. Julia’s head consultant, Firearms Division, Rare Firearms and Military Division, “This Roosevelt family Smith & Wesson revolver presents an amazing opportunity to own a true piece of fully documented United States history for two key reasons. First, extremely few fine firearms from Presidential families ever become available on the secondary market – the overwhelming majority are already in museums and other historical archives. Second, it is doubly rare to have one with direct connections to a high profile woman from this period, as so few were associated with firearms in the 1920’s and 1930’s. This revolver – for these and many other reasons – is truly in a class all unto itself. ”
About James D. Julia, Inc.:

James D. Julia, Inc., one of the top ten antique auction antique houses in North America, is headquartered in Fairfield, Maine. The company also has an office in Woburn, Massachusetts. In business for over 45 years, the company conducts high-end antique, collectible, and decorative arts auctions throughout the year. Julia’s has routinely establishes new world records through its sales events. The company consists of four key divisions, including rare firearms and militaria; fine and Asian art and antiques; lamps and glass; and important toy, dolls, and antique advertising. Each division is regarded for its excellence and is staffed with world-class specialists to insure fair and professional authentication, identification, and valuation services.

For more information on James D. Julia, Inc. and the company’s Outstanding October Firearms Auction, please visit www.jamesdjulia.com or click here.

Contact:
Wes Dillon
Department Head, Rare Firearms and Military Division
James D. Julia, Inc.
207-453-7125
firearms@jamesdjulia.com

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Fairfield, ME ~ October 7-9, 2014. Julia’s once again raised the bar for the highest grossing firearms auction in history at an incredible $19.2 million. They have said many times that they do not sell the greatest number of guns in a given year, but they do sell the greatest number of high end expensive guns. This was once again affirmed by the great success of this recent auction. Approximately 550 lots realized $10,000 or above (nearly 37% of the sale). In addition, over 60 items realized $50,000 or more. This is a greater number of high end lots than most all other firearms auction houses in North America combined for the year. To illustrate the results even more, one has to take into consideration that the Poulin Auction Company (run by Julia’s sister and brother-in-law) conducted an auction immediately preceding the Julia Auction where they sold $5.5 million. The end result of the gun sales for the week in Fairfield, Maine was approximately $25 million!

Another recurring theme at the Julia Auctions is the number of high end iconic collections being offered. In this recent auction, the Julia included no fewer than nine major and iconic collections together with excerpts from numerous other collections. This in itself is a greater representation of important collections than all of the other North American auction houses combined. Most important of all is of course the results and this was truly a successful sale for all concerned, whether one is selling high end shotguns, rare cannons, 17th century weapons, Class III machine guns, etc.

The first day began with Class III weapons. Most notable was the Evergreen Ventures Collection which had formerly been on display at the Evergreen Aviation Museum. The collection formed by Delford Smith and his son, Michael King Smith, represented one of the largest finest offerings of Class III to ever come to auction. This sale included Session I of this notable collection. The top lot, an extremely rare and desirable Vickers Maxim Model 1904 formerly used by the Fox Movie Studios brought $74,750. The very next lot, an exceedingly rare lightweight experimental Maxim Watercool gun made for the 1906 Troop Trials bearing SN #1 realized $69,000. An exceedingly rare and unusual Villa Perosa 1915 Twin 9mm Machine gun originally made as anti-aircraft weapon was in outstanding nearly new condition and carried a presale estimate of $40,000-60,000. It saw heavy bidding and went out at $57,500. Almost more exciting than the machine gun itself was the next lot, an incredibly scarce Villa Perosa gunner chest (only a couple are known to exist) with ten magazines. It carried a presale estimate of $5,000-10,000 and realized $34,500. Evergreen’s Class III’s however were not the only Class III’s offered in this sale. Also included was the personal collection of Brigadier General Theo C. Mataxis. General Mataxis was a veteran of WWII, the Korean War, Vietnam and an advisor in Afghanistan. During his lifetime of service to his country, he also collected war trophies in many key encounters in which he had been involved, which chronicled the history of his service. Most notable was the Chinese copy of a Soviet RPD belt fed machine gun that was captured November 1965 in Vietnam. It carried a presale estimate of $20,000-25,000 and finished out at $100,625. A Russian PPSH 41 submachine gun DeWat Negant Revolver that was captured at one of the most famous of Korean engagements in April of 1953 fought at Pork Chop Hill realized $13,800. A German MP 44 Assault Rifle DeWat captured from the 6th SS Mountain Division together with a Nazi flag carried a presale estimate of $12,000-18,000. It realized $27,600. Day 1 also included Session III of the extraordinary Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess (of Zurich, Switzerland) Collection of Auto-loading Weapons. This session offered an extraordinary Walther Armee Pistol with long barrel and matching magazine having an alloy frame and original stock bearing SN #10. In superb condition (other than a tight old stress crack in the rear of the slide cover), it carried a presale estimate of $75,000-100,000. It was highly competed for and finally realized $155,250. A Walther Volkspistole all sheet metal SA prototype 9mm parabellum bearing SN #6 was estimated at $65,000-95,000. It experienced a fierce bidding battle, which topped out at $143,750.

A number of fine Lugers were offered. The most highly competed for was a unique and important Baby Luger SN #4. This was a unique hand-produced gun believed to have been made around 1925 by DWM after George Luger’s death in an attempt to enter the low priced pocket pistol market that was then burgeoning in Germany. This is the only known genuine original example and carried a presale estimate of $50,000-100,000 and topped out at $69,000. An extraordinarily rare Model 1906 US Test Trials Wembley-Frostbery semi-automatic revolver sold to a highly determined in-house collector who attended the auction specifically for this rare version. It carried a presale estimate of $50,000-80,000 and sold for $77,625. Another very rare offering was fabulous the Gabbett Fairfax Mars M-1905 cal. 360. This pistol was estimated at $35,000-55,000 and went on to realize $63,250. Another exceedingly rare lot of particular interest to firearm aficionados from the State of Maine was the super rare Model 1897 Silverman-Maxim prototype pistol in 7.63mm. It carried a presale estimate of $20,000-30,000, which was totally disregarded by bidders when it finally topped out at $47,125. One of the inventors of this exceedingly rare pistol, Sir Hiram Maxim, was also the innovator of the machine gun sometime in the late 19th century. Maxim grew up in the small rural village of Sangerville, Maine, approximately 1.5 hours north of Julia’s auction facilities. Maxim was later knighted by the Queen of England for his invention and eventually decided to try his hand at producing semi-automatic pistols, of which this example was one of the few known.

Mausers were also at a premium and a superb very rare Mauser Nickel Prototype pistol in 45 acp bearing SN #3 carried a presale estimate of $45,000-75,000. It went out at $57,500. More of the Sturgess long arms were offered in this session. An exquisite and ultra-rare Springfield Peterson Model GX Prototype rifle SN #3, which carried a presale estimate of $45,000-70,000 sold at $66,125. Another desirable lot was the extremely rare BSA-Howell Model 1916 self-loading conversion of the SMLE rifle. This rifle was estimated at $20,000-27,500 and blew past the high estimate to generate $37,375. The spring 2015 auction will once again include an exciting offering of other rare arms from this world renowned collection.

The day ended with the extraordinary Springfield Arsenal LLC artillery collection formed by John Morris. John has become one of the foremost authorities on antique artillery in the world today. His long admired collection of artillery was much anticipated by collectors from all over North America and throughout the world. The anticipation was well deserved. It is believed there has never been an offering equaling the Morris Collection. This auction represented one half of what will eventually be offered with the second half to be presented at Julia’s in March 2015. The top lot was the Spanish Siege Mortar dated 1750 and captured by DuPont at Fernadina, Florida in 1862. It carried a presale estimate of $90,000-125,000 and approached mid-estimate to sell for $97,750. Another highly desirable lot was the Dahlgren Heavy 12 pounder bolt howitzer on original carriage. This superb specimen slipped past the upper end of its $60,000-90,000 presale estimate to sell for $92,000. A spectacular 1681 Dutch Falconette on carriage made for Count D.W. von Innhausen und Knyphausen was estimated for $75,000-125,000. A true work of art with exquisite embellishments on the barrel, the gun attained a final selling price of $80,000. Another highly sought after item was the Model 1906 Krupp 15mm Mountain cannon. It carried a presale estimate of $35,000-45,000, which it quickly eclipsed at $69,000. Part of the extraordinary price and interest may have had something to do with the fact that Mr. Morris announced that he had about a dozen rounds of genuine ammunition that could be purchased separately to be used with this gun. Also included in John’s collection was a wonderful grouping of cannon models, some of which did very well. An arsenal model of the 15 inch Rodman gun for 1864 was estimated at $8,000-10,000 and went out at $13,800. However, unlike the large cannons, a few of the extraordinarily rare cannon models failed to sell. Most notable was the extraordinarily rare, historic, and highly important personal model by John Dahlgren for the model 9 inch shell gun #2. This fabulous 1/8 scale model was made at John Dahlgren’s personal direction in 1853. The provenance included the ordinance museum from the Washington Navy Yard, then to a retired Admiral’s estate in Annapolis, MD, and then to the Springfield Arsenal. Also included in this lot were copies of Dahlgren’s personal notes regarding the building of this particular cannon. The lot was estimated at $20,000-25,000 but it surprisingly failed find a buyer.

The second day included some firearms ornamented with ivory. In some cases, it was a mere tiny speck of ivory used for a sighting bead. In other cases, it may have been carved ivory grips. Since the new Executive Order in February of 2014, legislature has been battling how the new law will read. Julia’s through their legal counsel and participation in various ivory organizations has tried to keep up with the current interpretation of the ruling that has evolved since March and changed on various occasions. At the time of the auction, based on the current interpretation, Julia’s formulated a specific procedure involving any arms with ivory ornamentation. This specific procedure was in keeping with the current interpretation of the rule to be sure to protect the consignor, the buyer, and Julia’s against breaking any laws. Julia relayed to the crowd that many people dealing in antique or semi-antique ivory have taken the position that since the law has not been finalized they will simply continue to sell the material. However, Julia explained that the U.S. Fish & Wildlife website makes it very clear that once the regulation is worked out in legislature and becomes law, they reserve the right to pursue the matter retroactively all the way back to February 2014. Firearms collectors were upset with regulations that impacted on ivory harvested and used 50, 100, or 150 years ago. Julia asked how many of those in attendance had written letters to the editors of their newspapers, congressman or the President. He went on to say that in a short period of time, whatever happens is going to become law and then it will be too late, and if those who complain now but do nothing about it can expect it will not play out in their favor. Julia maintains that there are easily $1 to $2 billion worth of legitimate, old (pre-ban) ivory ornamented collectable goods currently in this country that have been legitimately acquired by the owners. If this law is passed it will likely prohibit the sale of these items and it will transform approximately $2 billion of value to a net value of $0. The bottom-line is, if strictly enforced, making antique and semi-antique ivory illegal would not save today’s elephant. Only severe laws that punish poachers and dealers of modern ivory will have any beneficial impact.

Day II included the Leyton and Lewis Yearout Collection from Montana. A rare iron framed Henry bearing a presale estimate of $40,000-70,000 went out at just under $55,000. An exceptional Colt Cavalry SA bearing a Clark inspection was estimated at $20,000-30,000 but flew out at $51,750. An engraved factory inscribed Model 1866 cataloged as being owned by famous Winchester salesman, Thomas O’Connor, turned out to be even more rare and desirable because rather than being owned by the salesman, it was engraved by Thomas O’Connell, whose exquisite engravings are very rare on Winchester rifles. This rare find sold for $27,600. One of the largest offerings of Volcanic arms ever to come to auction were included. Highlights included the exceedingly rare cased and engraved New Haven Volcanic 25 inch Lever Action Carbine, which was in its original box and came from the esteemed collection of Dr. Edmund Lewis. Estimated at $100,000-150,000, it went out at just under $110,000. The most expensive Winchester of the day, however, was a rare Model 1873 “One of One Thousand”. This gun carried a presale estimate of $200,000-300,000 and topped out at $258,750. Also included in this day were some very fine Marlin rifles. The very rare deluxe factory engraved and inscribed Model 1881 with scope carried a presale estimate of $25,000-35,000 and sold for $57,500 to a well-known Western movie star. Also a rare presentation inscribed engraved Marlin 1881 in extremely fine condition, estimated at $35,000-55,000 went out at $63,250.

Other highlights included two particularly choice oil on canvas paintings by L. P. Rosseau that were magnificent examples and fresh out of a southern estate. Each was estimated at $20,000-40,000 and went out at $77,625 and $54,625, respectively.

The auction continued with an exceptionally rare and mint Boss 410 O/U single trigger shotgun estimated at $100,000-200,000 that sold for $138,000. And a Boss side by side 410 in equally extraordinary condition and carrying the same estimate went out at $120,750. An exquisite pair of 28 ga. Holland & Holland Royal Deluxe single trigger game guns with Sinclair engraved scenes estimated at $75,000-125,000 sold for $80,500. A fine cased pair of James Purdey extra finish sidelock ejector guns in 12 ga. estimated at $35,000-65,000 was much competed for and flew by expectations to $77,750. An exceptional N. J. Makinson 600 nitro express H&H style sidelock ejector double rifle with wonderful engraving was estimated at $50,000-80,000 and topped out at $69,000.

Featured amongst the high end American shotguns was the extraordinary collection of custom Model 21’s formed by Mr. Bill Phifer. Mr. Phifer first discovered and fell in love with the Winchester Model 21’s in the late 1970s and went on to order an extraordinary array of the finest Model 21’s the company made at that time. The guns were never fired, or even put together during his ownership. Included were some absolutely extraordinary examples. The very first lot up was an unprecedented spectacular unique Winchester Model 21 Grand Royal with extra barrels and case in 28 ga. Embellished with numerous exquisite gold inlays and gold highlighting, it carried a presale estimate of $60,000-90,000 but blew well past its high estimate to $115,000. A Model 21 Grand American, one of eight, small bore set was estimated at $50,000-80,000 and just squeaked past the $80,000 high estimate to $80,500. An exemplary Winchester Model 21 410 Grand American #8 of 8 was estimated at $35,000-55,000 and flew way past its high estimate to $92,000.

Parker shotguns always perform strongly at Julia’s and the best lot in this auction was an exceptionally rare high condition 410 Parker GHG estimated at $35,000-55,000 and flew past its high estimate to $69,000. A very fine 20 ga. Parker AAG with unusual engravings carrying a presale estimate of $30,000-50,000 was right on target, selling for $40,250. Another highly competed for American made gun was a truly exceptional unique 20 ga. All Option, Ithaca NID grade S7E with 32 inch barrels. A truly spectacular gold inlaid gun that was estimated at $35,000-65,000 saw a great deal of competition and topped out at $77,625.
Day III began with Colts, a strong suit at any Julia’s auction. One of the earliest lots was a Colt factory presentation Model 1855 side hammer shotgun presented to a retiring Colt employee in 1868. Estimated at $35,000-50,000, it topped out at $57,500. Of the three Colt Pattersons in the sale, an extraordinarily rare cased #1 Baby with all accessories and in extremely fine condition realized $172,500. A matched pair of SA Army revolvers with mother of pearl grips were estimated at $60,000-80,000 and sold for $66,125. A minty late factory-engraved Wilbur Glahn Colt with original ivory grips was estimated at $35,000-55,000. It topped out at just under $50,000. Another stunning gun was the extremely rare engraved pre-war government Model 38 Super Match semi-automatic pistol with original ivory grips and in its original factory box. This near mint example was estimated at $40,000-60,000. After a prolonged bidding battle, it went out at just under $75,000. A lot of three Smith & Wesson revolvers, at one time belonging to the greatest handgun shot of all times, Ed McGivern, was estimated at $10-15,000 and topped out at $24,000. McGivern was capable of unbelievable feats with a handgun. He was even known to have been able to hit pieces of buckshot that had been thrown in the air. Perhaps the most intriguing handgun of all was an extraordinarily rare cased Smith & Wesson outdoorsman revolver that belonged to the former First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt. The pistol in its original case with presentation tag had been a gift from Earl Miller, former New York State policeman, who was the personal bodyguard for the President and Eleanor Roosevelt. He became a close personal friend of Eleanor’s and taught her how to shoot. In fact, the lot included an image of Eleanor holding this exact gun and target practicing with it. The recent Roosevelt miniseries on television featured a segment about Eleanor herself. Approximately one week before the auction took place, this segment mentioned the assassination attempt on FDR and how Miller shortly thereafter taught Eleanor how to shoot and provided her with a handgun that she carried in the glove compartment of her car. The gun referenced was this very pistol. It was estimated at $45,000-65,000 and sold for $50,600.

A rare Confederate first national flag captured at the Battle of Fort Donaldson and descending through the family of Brigadier General Hiram Devol, 36th Ohio Infantry, was offered with a $15,000-20,000 estimate. After a prolonged bidding battle, it went out at $51,750. Included in this sale was also the collection of Judge George Green of Alabama. His collection had been displayed in a private museum until the time of his passing. This sale featured numerous treasures from his collection including a rare Confederate staff officer’s sword by Louis Haiman of Columbus, Georgia. Made for Major Francis Dillard, it was estimated at $20,000-40,000 and sold for $48,875.

The rare and important official 1810 Navy log of the U.S. Frigate President and the U.S.S. Constitution (AKA “Old Ironsides”) was offered with a presale estimate of $15,000-20,000. The handwritten journal, which had descended through the family of Tobias Lear (George Washington’s personal aide and secretary) and Commodore Decatur, realized $23,000.

Another expansive, old time, previously unknown collection was that of Dr. Douglas Sirkin of Buffalo, New York. This auction represented Session III of the Sirkin collection, which continues to offer an expansive array of quality Kentucky rifles. A beautiful relief carved Kentucky by J. Shriver was estimated at $30,000-50,000 and topped out at $40,250. Another Kentucky signed Martin Meillen in Germantown, 1705, could possibly be the earliest signed and dated Kentucky known. It was estimated at $10,000-50,000 and it, too, topped out at $40,250. Also from the Sirkin Collection was the superb pair of relief carved stump maple stocked long flintlock holster pistols with relief chiseled steel mounts, circa 1695. They carried a presale estimate of $10,000-15,000 and topped out at $31,000.

Another large old time collection included in this sale was that of John Montague of Memphis, Tennessee. Montague’s collection was quite diverse and included a great selection of Kentucky pistols, but the highlight of his collection were his southern Derringers and pistols. One lot, a rare J.B. Gilmore Derringer from Shreveport, Louisiana was estimated conservatively at $6,000-8,000. It saw a tremendous amount of competition and topped out at $40,250. Another fine lot was a cased pair of dueling pistols, also by Gilmore. This beautiful pair was estimated at a conservative $7,500-9,500 and these, too, went out at $40,250. A cased matched pair of Schneider & Glassick Derringers of Memphis, Tennessee was estimated at $8,000-12,000 and went out at $24,150.
More details about this historic auction can be had by visiting Julia’s website at jamesdjulia.com. Julia’s next firearms auction is scheduled for March 2015 and already includes various important collections and should prove to be another exciting event. Julia’s is currently accepting consignments for this and other upcoming auctions. Call immediately for inclusion. For more information or to place offers on unsold items, contact their offices at 207-453-7125. James D. Julia, Inc., P.O. Box 830, Dept. PR, Fairfield, ME 04937. E-mail: info@jamesdjulia.com.

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	(Sirkin Collection), Important and Very Rare Relief Carved Curly Maple Flint Kentucky by J. Shriver. Presale estimate $30,000-50,000. Sold: $40,250.
	Rare Cased Colt #1 Baby Patterson with 4” bbl. and complete accessories (recently discovered). Presale estimate $75,000-125,000. Sold: $172,500.
	(Evergreen Ventures Collection), Extremely Rare and Desirable Vickers Maxim Model 1904 formerly used by Fox Movie Studios. Presale estimate $75,000-125,000. Sold: $74,750.
	(Mataxis Collection), Chinese Copy of Soviet RPD Belt Fed Machine Gun Dewat captured November 1965 in Vietnam. Presale estimate $20,000-25,000. Sold: $100,625.
	Rare Winchester Model 1873, 1 of 1,000 Rifle, estimate $200,000-300,000. Sold: $258,750.
	(Sturgess Collection), Extraordinary Walther Armee Pistole with long barrel, matching magazine, alloy frame & original stock. Presale estimate $75,000-100,000. Sold: $155,250.
	(Sturgess Collection), Walther Volkspistole, all sheet metal, SA prototype, 9MM parabellum. Presale estimate $65,000-95,000. Sold: $143,000.
	(Sturgess Collection), Rare Springfield 0.3 Pedersen Mod GX Prototype Rifle SN #3. Presale estimate $45,000-70,000. Sold: $66,125.
	(Lewis Collection), Exceedingly Rare Factory Cased and Engraved New Haven Volcanic 25” Lever Action Carbine. Presale estimate $100,000-150,000. Sold: $109,250.
	(From a private Southern Estate), Oil Painting by Percival Leonard Rosseau, “Pointers Jimmie De K & Peters Carrot on Quail”. Presale estimate $20,000-40,000. Sold: $77,625.
	(Yearout Collection), Colt 1873 Clark inspected SA Revolver. Presale estimate $20,000-30,000. Sold: $45,000.
	(Springfield Arsenal Collection), the Rare and Desirable Dahlgren Heavy 12-Pounder Boat Howitzer on original carriage. Presale estimate $60,000,-90,000. Sold: $92,000.
	(Springfield Arsenal Collection), Rare and desirable Spanish Siege Mortar dated 1750 captured by Dupont at Fernadina, Florida 1862. Presale estimate $90,000-125,000. Sold: $97,750.
	(Greene Museum Collection), Rare Confederate Staff Officer’s Sword made by Louis Haiman, Columbus, Georgia for Major Francis Dillard. Presale estimate $20,000-40,000. Sold: $48,875.
	(Montague Collection), Rare Southern Derringer by J.B. Gilmore of Shreveport, Louisiana. Presale estimate $6,000-8,000. Sold: $40,250.
	Rare and very choice Boss 410 O/U sidelock ejector single trigger game gun. Presale estimate $100,000-200,000. Sold: $138,000.
	(Phifer Collection), Spectacular Unique Winchester Model 21 “Grand Royal” with extra barrels and case. Presale estimate $60,000-90,000. Sold: $115,000.
	(Phifer Collection), the Spectacular Winchester Mode 21 .410 ga. “Grand American”, number “Eight of Eight”. Presale estimate $35,000-55,000. Sold $92,000.
	Jim Julia together with John Morris, owner of the Springfield Arsenal Collection of Rare Artillery, shown with the rare rifle Model 1841 Heavy 12-Pounder cannon which realized $51,750.
	Jim Julia called the greater portion of the auction on all three days and played to a large audience on each day.

Fairfield, ME ~ August 19-22, 2014. It’s not every day an auction hits about a million dollars over low estimate, but again, we are talking a Julia auction here. In over 45 years in the business, the firm has seen its share of stellar auctions, be it in their renowned firearms division, their antique toy & doll division, their fine glass & lamp division, or their fine art, antique & Asian department. This last division recently surpassed all expectations with a four-day auction extravaganza that grossed a massive $5.7 Million against a low estimate of approximately $4.8 Million. Bidders were treated to a massive selection of American & European paintings, folk art, Asian antiques and art, silver, and fine antiques of every kind. These fresh-to-the-market offerings saw some of the strongest interest the market has seen in some time.

Day I started things off with approximately 400 paintings highlighted in part by over 25 works by Waldo Peirce that had descended through the family of the artist before making their public debut at Julia’s. This renowned free spirited and prolific artist was good friends with Ernest Hemingway and shared many an adventure with the author. One such fishing excursion in Key West was captured on canvas, picturing a shirtless Hemingway holding a sizeable catch. Entitled “Don Ernesto Con Una Bonita”, it reeled in $53,325 against a pre-auction estimate of $2,000-4,000. Another scene of Key West picturing a group of sailors enjoying some R&R at a local jazz club saw action to the tune of $48,585 against expectations of $4,000-6,000.

The day continued with a whole host of regional and other American artists as well as a select grouping of European works. Fellow New Englander Emile Gruppe was represented by such works as his rendition of Smith Cove in Gloucester showing various fishermen preparing their nets for a day on the water with numerous boats comprising the background. It sold for $13,365 within an estimate of $10,000-15,000. William Lester Stevens’ “Towering Trees” showing a foreground of gnarled birches and a distant church steeple peeking through went out at $13,035 within its $12,000-14,000 estimate. California artist Marguerite Zorach, who summered in New England, was represented by a bold oil on board of a waterfall amid tall evergreens that sold above its $10,000-15,000 estimate for $31,995.
Other Northeasterners included William Trost Richards. This renowned New Yorker with a deft hand whose landscape of a lake in the Adirondacks saw tremendous interest. From a private Long Island collection, it beat out its $10,000-20,000 estimate to bring $41,475.

An outstanding and large oil on canvas scene by Edmund William Greacen entitled “In a Giverny Garden, 1909” pictured the artist’s wife sitting in her lush country garden. The work’s provenance indicates Greacen gave this painting to his good friend and fellow artist Theodore Earl Butler who was Monet’s son-in-law. This exceptional work sold within its $30,000-50,000 estimate for $35,550.

Also worthy of note were three works by Ralph Cahoon. This 20th century artist known for his whimsical works that combine fantasy and folk art sensibilities saw mixed results. “Susannah & The Elders”, an octagonal form oil on board of a group of pilgrim elders being ferried along the shore when they happen upon a smiling mermaid grooming herself. This charming work sold for $20,145 against an estimate of $10,000-15,000.

The selection of art continued with some international examples such as two works from a Long Island collector of Philippine artist Fernando Amorsolo. One, a marvelous oil of laborers working the rice fields in the shadow of a distant volcano sold above its $50,000-80,000 estimate for $100,725. The other was a market scene of townspeople buying and selling produce in the village square. It sold within the same presale estimate for $53,325.

French artist Edouard Cortes’ busy Parisian street scene “Place Bastille” captures the square during a chilling autumn rain as pedestrians and drivers bustle about. This lovely work brought $26,070 within expectations of $20,000-30,000.

A little closer to home, Canadian art made a strong showing with two works in particular. Cornelius Krieghoff’s touching scene of a pioneer father bidding farewell to his family before what appears to be a long hunting trip sold within its $30,000-50,000 estimate for $47,400. From roughly a century later, Canadian artist Lawren Harris’ portrayal of barren trees during the spring thaw above Lake Superior sold well above its $5,000-10,000 estimate for $42,600.
Also included was a late addition to the auction, a highly desirable Ansel Adams signed gelatin silver print of a southwest village entitled “Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico 1942”. No one does black and white like Adams. One look and you know you’re looking at a master. It changed hands above its $25,000-35,000 estimate for $43,845.

The focus of Day II and the first part of Day III was on a vast array of folk art in a variety of genres. It also included a fine array of marine and nautical art, American furniture and accessories of every kind. Highlights included the largest collection of weathervanes Julia’s has handled in recent memory. An important copper example from the late 19th Century showed a quill pen breaking a sword blade and once belonged to American publishing magnate Cyrus H.K. Curtis whose credits include the Saturday Evening Post and Ladies Home Journal. Curtis, who was born in Portland, Maine in 1850, had it created as a logical extension of his profession as a publisher and to represent the old adage, “The pen is mightier than the sword.” The vane was acquired in the 1930s by the present consignor’s father who received it as partial payment for some demolition work he was doing on the building on which it stood for many years. It proved to be mightier than its $20,000-40,000 presale estimate and sold for $47,400. Other examples included an exceptional molded copper pig weathervane with evenly worn gilt surfaces that sold well above its $12,000-18,000 estimate for $32,587. A large copper grasshopper attributed to L.W. Cushing & Sons of Waltham, Massachusetts with delightful verdigris surfaces came fresh from a Midwest collection with an estimate of $15,000-25,000 and sold for $26,662. Among the list of other animals both wild and domestic was a hollow bodied trick horse jumping through a hoop. Attributed to A.L. Jewell & Co. of Waltham, Massachusetts, it sold for $17,775 against expectations of $8,000-10,000.

Other folk art included a generous selection of primitive portraits, most of which depicted children with their toys or pets, making them even more desirable. One in particular from the mid-19th century when it was traditional to dress young girls and boys alike pictured a blond boy in a gray dress and bloomers holding a garland of flowers with his dog resting beside him. Charming beyond words, it sold at the upper end of its $15,000-25,000 estimate for $23,700. Another standout was an example attributed to William W. Kennedy of a young boy holding a cane. With a very distinctive expression, this classic portrait went out at $11,850, nearly doubling the top end of its $4,000-6,000 estimate.

A selection of folk art quilts included a fine appliqué album quilt from the 19th century that featured 25 large squares depicting floral motifs. From a fine private Long Island collection it maintained brilliant color throughout and sold above its $5,000-8,000 estimate for $10,665.

Folk art of a more nautical flavor included ship models, portraits, accessories, and so forth. Marine art included works by the commodore of ship portraits, Antonio Jacobsen. His depiction of the black hulled steamship “The Commonwealth” sold for $7,702 versus its estimate of $5,000-7,000. But it was Montague Dawson’s vertical portrait of an oncoming three-mast tall ship in full sail cutting through the sun reflected in the white tipped green waves that stole the show. In a seemingly unending bidding battle that went well beyond its $20,000-40,000 estimate, it ultimately went to the buyer willing to go to $74,062.
Other items of interest included a nice assortment of American furniture from a private Long Island collector. Highlights included a fine Chippendale carved mahogany block-front slant-lid desk. From the third quarter of the 18th century Boston, this exceptional piece ex-Louis Appell collection is fitted with an arrangement of valenced pigeon holes and blocked drawers accentuated by bold period brasses and ball & talon feet. It sold for $14,220 against a $10,000-15,000 estimate. From the same collection was an exceptional Chippendale tiger maple corner chair with delightful pierced and scrolled splats reminiscent of owls alternating with ring turned pilasters. It more than quadrupled the low end of its $8,000-12,000 estimate to land at $35,550.

From the renowned Norm Flayderman collection was a selection of exceedingly rare Civil War recruiting posters. Flayderman was an astute businessman, scholar and military collector who helped revolutionize the price guide. While there were firearm and other price guides, his became the bible used most often and were respected above all others for their information, honest assessments, and accuracy. Julia’s sold Flayderman’s firearm collection earlier this year and his personal collection of Civil War recruiting posters and broadsides that by sheer miracle survived these 150+ years found favor in this auction. Of particular note was a massive recruiting broadside for the Manhattan rifles picturing a Zouave soldier. Color recruiting posters were exceedingly rare and this particular poster was believed to have been the first original example ever offered at public auction. It did not disappoint, seeing much action by those in attendance and bidding by telephone. It sold beyond its $2,000-3,000 estimate for $14,812. A massive seven foot recruiting broadside from Boston believed to be the largest Civil War recruiting poster in existence went out at $7,702 against a $1,500-2,500 estimate.

This session was rounded out by a selection of early American, English and Mexican sterling silver as well as American and continental coins and Russian enamel pieces such as a superb and large silver kovsh with matching spoon by Maria Semyenova. From the early part of the 20th century, it featured delicate shading and robust colors with allover foliate and flower decoration. Residing in the same family since it was brought over from Poland in the 1930s it sold above its $6,000-9,000 estimate for $28,440. A set of four mid-18th century British sterling silver candlesticks went out at $10,072, ignoring an $800-1,200 estimate.
Much of Days III and IV were devoted to approximately 1,200 lots of Asian art and artifacts, some of which came from an estate collection of a renowned Taiwanese diplomatic family with ties to Robert Frost and T.S. Eliot. The collection consisted of a variety of carved figures, scrolls, seals, censers, jade, porcelain, and more. Of particular note, were the wonderful collection of seals. Many of which performed admirably. Lot #4247 was a soapstone seal of Tien Huang, early 20th century, estimated at $800-1,000; it saw a fierce bidding battle which resulted in it selling for approximately $32,000. Another lot also a soapstone seal, Tien Huang Shih, estimated at $300-400 also produced fierce bidding which resulted in a final sale price of $23,700.00. A set of four album leaves by Huang Junbi (1898-19991) were estimated at $4,000-6,000 and finally topped out at $19,550.00. A beautiful Jadeite pendant and pair of earrings were estimated at $12,000-18,000 but topped out at $35,500.00.

The collection was further highlighted by a large offering of fine jade in a variety of forms. Of particular note was an important jade scepter. This sea green celadon stone carved as Ling Chih with lotus flowers and allover foliage was accompanied by a pierced and carved rosewood stand. Estimated for $30,000-50,000, it sold for $35,550. A set of six white jade pendants in a presentation box, depicting gourds, mushrooms and archaic dragons; and these diminutive carvings far exceeded an $800-1,200 estimate to bring $28,440. An intricately carved jade belt buckle ignored a $300-500 estimate to sell for $8,295.
The auction continued with a grouping of Asian porcelain including Ming as well as a select grouping of Chinese Export including a rare Carlos Maria de Bustamante armorial crest pitcher. The porcelain helmet pitcher decorated in gold with a crest and flowers honors the ascension of Ferdinand VII in 1808 who later became a noted figure in Mexico’s War of Independence. It went out at $4,147 against an estimate of $300-500. A porcelain shallow bowl from the early Ming period (circa 1400) decorated with lotus plants and stylized scrolling was highly sought after and brought a solid $47,400 within its $40,000-60,000 estimate. Each estimated for $200-300 and each selling for $11,850 was an early Ming style porcelain vase from the 19th century with beautiful red scrolling vines and flowers as well as a pair of yellow porcelain bowls with green painted characters.

Also included was a large offering of Chinese and Japanese figural bronzes. One of the many highlights was a fine bronze of a windblown figure from the Meiji period Japan. Brilliantly cast with realistic billowing folds, the robed gentleman with gilt highlights seems to be taking it all in stride. From the Norm Flayderman collection, it multiplied its $10,000-20,000 estimate to sell for $43,845. A bronze figure of Buddha seated in the lotus position atop an ornate golden throne sold for $23,700 against a $1,000-2,000 estimate. An 18th century Chinese bronze image of the 11-headed Quanyin likewise saw active bidding. It went out at $9,480 against a $400-600 estimate.

Julia’s upcoming auctions include their phenomenal firearms and military memorabilia auction taking place in October. Following will be Julia’s toy & doll auction as well as their rare lamp & glass auction in November. Their next antiques, fine art, and Asian artifact auction will take place in February 2015. Julia’s is currently accepting consignments for these and other upcoming auctions. Call immediately for inclusion in these exciting sales. For more information or to place offers on unsold items, contact their offices at 207-453-7125. James D. Julia, Inc., P.O. Box 830, Dept. PR, Fairfield, ME 04937. E-mail: info@jamesdjulia.com.

Image	Description
	This important jade scepter from the diplomat’s collection was carved as Ling Chih with lotus flowers and allover foliage. Accompanied by a pierced and carved rosewood stand, it sold for $35,550 against a $30,000-50,000 estimate.
	A selection of exceedingly rare Civil War recruiting posters from the Norm Flayderman collection included this massive recruiting broadside for the Manhattan rifles picturing a Zouave soldier. Color recruiting posters were exceedingly rare and this particular poster was believed to have been the first original example ever offered at public auction. It did not disappoint, and sold beyond its $2,000-3,000 estimate for $14,812.
	A large offering of Chinese and Japanese figural bronzes was highlighted by a fine bronze of a windblown figure from the Meiji period Japan. Brilliantly cast with realistic billowing folds, the robed gentleman seems to be taking it all in stride. From the Norm Flayderman collection, it multiplied its $10,000-20,000 estimate to sell for $43,845.
	Over 25 works by Waldo Peirce that had descended through the family of the artist before making their public debut at Julia’s included this image of Peirce’s good friend Ernest Hemingway holding a sizeable catch. Entitled “Don Ernesto Con Una Bonita”, it reeled in $53,325 against a pre-auction estimate of $2,000-4,000.
	A nice assortment of American furniture from a private Long Island collector included this fine Chippendale carved mahogany block-front slant-lid desk. From the third quarter of the 18th century Boston, this exceptional piece sold for $14,220 against a $10,000-15,000 estimate.
	The selection of art continued with some international examples such as Philippine artist Fernando Amorsolo. This marvelous oil of laborers working the rice fields in the shadow of a distant volcano sold above its $50,000-80,000 estimate for $100,725.
	Also worthy of note were three works by Ralph Cahoon. “Susannah & The Elders”, an octagonal form oil on board of a group of pilgrim elders being ferried along the shore when they happen upon a smiling mermaid grooming herself, sold for $20,145 against an estimate of $10,000-15,000.
	Marine art included Montague Dawson’s vertical portrait of an oncoming three-mast tall ship in full sail cutting through the sun reflected in the white tipped green waves. In a seemingly unending bidding battle that went well beyond its $20,000-40,000 estimate, it ultimately went to the buyer willing to go to $74,062.
	The largest collection of weathervanes Julia’s has handled in recent memory included an important copper example from the late 19th Century once belonging to American publishing magnate Cyrus H.K. Curtis whose credits include the Saturday Evening Post and Ladies Home Journal. Representing the old adage, “The pen is mightier than the sword,” the vane proved to be mightier than its $20,000-40,000 presale estimate and sold for $47,400.
	An outstanding and large oil on canvas scene by Edmund William Greacen entitled “In a Giverny Garden, 1909” pictured the artist’s wife sitting in her lush country garden. This exceptional work sold within its $30,000-50,000 estimate for $35,550.
	This highly desirable Ansel Adams signed gelatin silver print of a southwest village entitled “Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico 1942” changed hands above its $25,000-35,000 estimate for $43,845.

Congratulations to the Fine Art, Asian & Antiques Division on an auction total of over $5.7 million! It takes a lot of hard work and dedication on part of the division staff and the agents to bring together an auction of over 2,700 lots offered over four days.

One of the many highlights from the recent Fine Art, Asian & Antiques Division August auction was a collection of Waldo Peirce paintings. It was a great thrill to have Peirce’s grandchildren in the gallery as two of his paintings opened the auction on the first day with a quickly climbing flurry of bids leading to hammer prices which set the pace for the next four days of auction. The first piece, “Coast Guard at the ‘Silver Slipper,’ Key West” had an estimated value between $4,000 and $6,000. However, once the dust settled after all the bidding activity, the piece sold at over $48,000. And before the audience finished clapping for the piece, we were on to the second piece, “Don Ernesto” Key West ’27, which was estimated at $2,000 to $4,000. And the room lit up once again as the bidding energy built to a sale price of more than $53,000.

The auction included several private family collections including the Estate Collection from a renowned Taiwanese Diplomatic family. The collection as a whole sold at more than five times the low estimate. The collection also included many seals that drew interest from bidders in the live audience as well as the phone and the internet.

We want to thank all of our consignors and bidders who participated and made this auction the outstanding success it was! And remind everyone that the Lamp & Glass and Advertising, Toy & Doll divisions are still accepting consignments through the month of September.

Mark your calendars for our next rare and collectible Firearms auction which will be held October 7–9.