On Friday, June 24, at 3 p.m., Hartzell's Auction Gallery Inc. of Bangor, Pa., will offer the estate of Florence Greene of Buck Hill Falls, Pa., which includes 30-plus pieces of Robert Whitley furniture purchased directly from Whitley in the 1960s and 70s.
Robert Whitley (b. 1924) of New Hope, Pa., grew up in the antiques business with guidance from his father. At an early age, Whitley showed interest and talent in the art of furniture making. When he was just 14 he made his first piece of furniture for resale. In 1966, Whitley won the National Merit Award from the Museum of Contemporary Art for his "Starfish Desk." Following this prestigious award, he received two presidential commissions and numerous requests from museums. His works were exhibited in both the Smithsonian Institution and the American Craft Museum.
Whitley believes, "a truly excellent design - one that is pleasing to the eye, graceful in line, and serves a practical function will survive the trends and fads of the times and will retain its classic beauty forever."
Featured Whitley items in the June 24 auction will include a hard-to-find Starfish desk, a wall mounted credenza, a dining table with six chairs, and a rare revolving bar/liquor cabinet. Additional Whitley items to be sold include, a Trestle desk with chair, free-form side tables, mirrors, a pair of lamps, and more.
This outstanding auction will also include consignments from several other prominent estates, such as a large selection of Arts and Crafts furniture and accessories, sterling silver and pottery from the estate of Allen Whitcomb. Also, a fine grouping of rugs, a Steinway Piano and vintage lighting from the estate of Helen Baumann, will be sold. In addition, there will be quality antique furniture, paintings, clocks, pocket watches, jewelry, and toys.
Other special mention items include, a large bird diorama (from the Buck Hill Falls Inn), a Bakelite table top radio, a collection of German Steins, vintage appliances, Old Hickory furniture, Rolex and Cartier watches, Waterford, and a Mills slot machine.
Previews will be held on June 22 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., on June 23 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday, June 24 (day of the auction) until 3 p.m.
Internet bidding will be facilitated by LiveAuctioneers.com. Bidders who wish to participate online are encouraged to register 24 hours prior to the auction. Absentee bids will be accepted. Phone lines for bidding are limited and must be reserved by 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 23.
For further information, call Hartzell’s at 610-588-5831 or e-mail hartzell@epix.net.
Additional information and photos can also be found at www.hartzellsauction.com and on www.Auctionzip.com.