Titanic passenger list brings $33,900 at Philip Weiss sale A rare, second-class passenger list from the doomed ocean liner the Titanic sold for $33,900 at a three-day multi-estate sale held June 20-22 by Philip Weiss Auctions in Oceanside, New York.
Foolish Pleasure and had to pick one to ride. He chose Ruffian because, he explained, “She's the better horse.”
Another item from the estate of Ken Schultz – a vintage White Star Line poster from around the 1920s – hammered for $3,050. The poster, measuring 40” x 25”, was titled “Types of World Famous Liners” and showcased the White Star lineup. It was printed by the Liverpool Printing & Stationery Company and was in good condition, with no major damage save for some minor creases and cracks.
From the fine and decorative arts category, two lots were top earners. One was an aquatint from 1950, stamped and signed by Pablo Picasso himself (#66/150), titled “La Grave de Cheire.” The 30” x 22-1/4” piece went for $6,780. Also, an outstanding silver overlay iridescent 7” art glass vase by Loetz (the Austrian glassworks firm that operated from 1840 until the Second World War) realized $6,215.
An original pen-and-ink political cartoon by the renowned British cartoonist Sir David Low (1891-1963), dated Sept. 12, 1938 and titled “The Man Who Hears Voices,” rose to $4,407. The cartoon (#1568 in the British Cartoon Archives, 20-1/2” x 13-3/4”) depicted Adolf Hitler on horseback, dressed as a knight, while leaders of France, England and Russia listened to his speeches on a Victrola.
An antique figural beer stein made by the German firm J. M. Musterschutz (circa 1900-1920) changed hands for $2,825. The stein was in the form of a Pierrot (French mime character, depicting a sad character). The hallmark on the base read, “Musterschutz, Made in Germany.” The piece stood 8-3/4” tall and was in overall good condition. Musterschutz was a well-known made of drinking steins.
A toy Cadillac convertible, made in the 1950s by the German manufacturer GAMA, in near mint condition and still in the box, sped off for $2,260. The 12” long vehicle was beautifully colored and detailed, made of sturdy metal and complete with composition driver, nicely detailed tin-litho interior and spring-load antenna. The colorful box had an illustration of the hardtop version of the car.
A large round porcelain sign for “Buick Authorized Service, Valve in Head,” round and 42” in diameter, sold to a determined bidder for $1,975. The nice example of petroliana was a two-sided sign with bright colors and a glossy finish. It was made in the 1930s. Some minor scratches, dings and porcelain loss didn't deter bidders, who were more than happy to drive the price to just under $2,000.
Philip Weiss Auctions takes a much-deserved break in July and August, but comes back strong in September with six sale dates planned over the course of three weekends. The month kicks off on Saturday, September 13, at 10 a.m., with Part 2 of the B.L. “Phil” Phillips Collection (mostly battery-ops); a single-owner toy truck collection with many high-end pieces; toys; trains; and toy soldiers.
The following day, September 14, at 10 a.m., more toys will be offered, along with comics; comic art; original “Peanuts” art by Charles Schulz;
