A NEW auction house has been launched in the midwest region in the latest example of the apparently recession-proof nature of the fine art and antiques trade.
The Limerick Auction Rooms is a joint venture between Hamptons auctioneers and Robin O’Donnell of Hibernian Antique and Fine Art Fairs.
It will hold its first auction next Wednesday afternoon, February 23rd, at 2pm and viewing of the 440 lots is currently underway. Rare pieces of provincial Irish silver are among the highlights of the inaugural auction.
A Queen Anne-era silver cup, made in Kinsale circa 1710 by silversmiths J W Wall, is described as extremely rare and in fantastic condition. It has an €55,000-€60,000 estimate.
Kinsale was traditionally one of the most important provincial centres for Irish silver and the Co Cork town had its own official mark. Despite its resemblance to a sports trophy, the cup was most likely used as a wine cooler.The inaugural auction also includes furniture, art, jewellery and collectibles. The new venue is on the fringes of Limerick city at the Garryglass Industrial Estate, off Ballysimon Road – exit 29 on the M7 Motorway.
