New York and Chinese carvings lead Brunk's Sept. 24-25 auction
20.09.11
ASHEVILLE, N.C. - Two 19th-century carvings are center stage at Brunk Auctions’ sale on Sept.24-25. Both descended in notable families and the stories and mysteries that surround each carving should encourage us to reopen our history books for more fascinating details.
Leading the way are two carved wooden figures of firefighters, circa 1820. The two descended in the family of Ely Heaslden (died 1855), a colorful man who combined firefighting with street fighting. In 1842 as the boss warrior of Engine Company 27 in lower Manhattan, Heaslden led his men in a brawl with their bitter rival, Engine Company 34. The battle is reminiscent of scenes from Martin Scorsese’s 2002 film Gangs of New York. Haeslden obtained the 23 in. firefighter figures that had been designed for display on Engine 27 during parades and balls. Each figure is leaning on a gilt fire horn and dressed in period attire. Estimates for the pair are $60,000/$90,000.
Source: Auction Central News