From Archibald Knox to Salvador Dalí - iconic 20th century design is set to become part of the landscape at John Nicholson’s as the Fernhurst saleroom launches a new sales programme.

Great British Life: A Good Gall Glass VaseA Good Gall Glass Vase (Image: Archant)

Among the big-ticket pieces to go under the hammer at the inaugural sale on Friday, October 10th are a Salvador Dalí egg, Lalique glassware, a ‘Clematis’ Moorcroft vase and a stunning enamel and pewter clock by Brad Pitt’s favourite designer, Archibald Knox.

Multiple-platform live online bidding is expected to attract buyers from all over the world as well as sparking local interest.

John Nicholson said: “We are very excited about this new venture and are thrilled with the quality of consignments. This sale will feature a lot of hugely influential names but there is one that is currently highly desirable and that is the Art Nouveau and Arts and Crafts designer, Archibald Knox. The blue pewter and enamel clock is a stunning example of his metalwork – apparently, the actor Brad Pitt is an avid Knox collector and holds a very similar clock in his collection.”

This year is the 150th anniversary of Knox’s birth and has brought a keen interest in his work. A 115-strong collection of his designs, as well as his ‘Cymric’ silverware and ‘Tudric’ pewter ware for Liberty & Co have recently been on display at the recent Olympia International Art and Antiques Fair in London. The Isle of Man Post Office (Knox was a Manx man) has also just featured a selection of his designs on their postage stamps.

Mr Nicholson added: “We have many clients on our books who are extremely interested in this auction and are therefore seeking further consignments for this sale on so potential consignors are welcome to contact our saleroom team.”

Another key piece being auctioned is a small egg sculpture by Salvador Dalí depicting the image of a birth from an egg. Eggs, representing rebirth, are present in many of Dalí’s paintings and sculptures. In fact, the artist was so obsessed with its symbolic value that he built a house and festooned the roof with huge, white eggs as an alternative balustrade.

Also featured is a Moorcroft ‘Clematis’ vase with large flower heads and leaves in yellow, red lilac and green against a deep blue background, a Cameo glass vase by Daum, a good Gallé Glass Vase, a stunning Tilgmans Ceramic Lamp and a Ferdinand Preiss Female Figure.

John Nicholson’s 20th Century Sale is being held on Friday 10th October. For timings and directions see www.johnnicholsons.com.

If you would like to discuss possibly consigning items for this exciting new venture please contact Edwyn Pym on 01428 653727 or email edwynpym@johnnicholsons.com. The closing date for entries is Friday 26th September.

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