Elephant Takes Center Stage at Antique Auction
A stuffed elephant, standing at an impressive 127 centimeters, is set to be a showstopper at an upcoming auction in Cork, Ireland.
While the auction highlights exquisite antique furniture and collectibles spanning the Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian eras, this unusual taxidermy piece is sure to draw significant attention.
"If you can tear your attention away from Dumbo," remarked an auction house representative, "you might be taken by a pair of marble-topped gilt console tables, a Georgian Adam-style mirror or a Georgian lowboy in the Chippendale style on paw feet."
The auction promises a diverse collection of treasures for discerning collectors.
A Feast for Collectors
The sale will showcase an array of exceptional items, including:
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Georgian Elegance: Expect to find beautifully crafted Georgian furniture, exemplifying the era’s penchant for refined design and craftsmanship. Keep an eye out for elegant Adam-style mirrors and exquisite lowboys with delicate paw feet.
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Victorian Glamour: Explore a selection of Victorian furniture known for its ornate details and rich embellishments.
- Edwardian Charm: Discover pieces showcasing the Edwardian era’s graceful lines and elegant simplicity.
Beyond furniture, the auction will feature a curated selection of art and other collectible items, offering something for every taste and preference.
Preview and Bidding
Prospective buyers are invited to preview the auction items at Marshs auction rooms from December 4th to 6th, between 10:30 am and 6:30 pm each day.
The auction itself takes place on Saturday, December 7th, promising an exciting opportunity to acquire unique and valuable pieces of history. Get ready to bid on your favorite finds and potentially bring home a piece of the past.
What are the key ethical considerations buyers should keep in mind when purchasing antique ivory, and where can they find reliable information about the legalities surrounding this trade?
## From Stuffed Elephant to Antique Ivory: A Tale of Two Trunks
**(Interviewer):** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re delving into the world of antiques, specifically a fascinating juxtaposition we’ve seen lately: a stuffed elephant taking center stage at an auction in Ireland, while online, a carved ivory tusk garners attention. Joining me to discuss these intriguing pieces is antique expert, [Guest Name].
**(Guest):** Thank you for having me.
**(Interviewer):** Let’s start with the elephant in the room, literally. A 127-centimeter stuffed elephant is certainly an unusual find at an auction primarily focused on furniture and collectibles. What do you make of this?
**(Guest):** It’s a captivating piece, to say the least. While Georgian and Victorian furniture always hold a certain allure, the sheer size and novelty of the taxidermied elephant will undoubtedly draw a crowd. It speaks to a trend we’re seeing, where buyers are looking for pieces with unique stories and character, even if they fall outside the traditional antique categories.
**(Interviewer):** Interesting. Now, shifting gears, we have news of antique ivory tusks being sold online. Of course, this raises questions about the ethics and legality of dealing with ivory. How do you navigate these complexities?
**(Guest):** You’re right to raise those concerns. The trade of ivory is a deeply sensitive issue. It’s crucial to remember that any ivory being sold should be pre-ban, meaning it was acquired before international trade was outlawed. Reputable sellers like the one mentioned in the [1](https://www.marks4antiques.com/price-guides/ANTIQUE-IVORY-ELEPHANTS) listing will clearly state the age and origin of the ivory, ensuring that it is legal to purchase and ship. Buyers should always do their due diligence and verify the legitimacy of the source.
**(Interviewer):** Excellent point. It seems these two pieces, while vastly different, both represent fascinating trends within the antique market: the search for unique stories and the careful navigation of ethical considerations.
**(Guest):** Precisely. The world of antiques is ever-evolving, and it requires both passion and responsibility.
**(Interviewer):** Thank you for sharing your insights, [Guest Name]. This has been a fascinating discussion.
