Shelley's May 3 online auction debut features NC estate antiques

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. - On May 3, 2012 Shelley's Auction Gallery in Hendersonville, N.C., will hold its first Premier Online Auction of 2012. This online-only sale conducted through LiveAuctioneers.com will begin at 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Absentee bids may be left on any item, now through auction day, at www.LiveAuctioneers.com.

The wonderfully varied selection offered in the sale includes jewelry and watches; art, glass, porcelain and figurines; coins, toys, an autograph collection, tins, rugs and more than 100 sterling silver pieces. The goods have come primarily from local estates.

A highly desirable "Blossom" sterling silver tea service designed by Georg Jensen in 1905 includes a beautiful oval tray with highly decorative openwork trim. The teapot, coffee pot and milk jug all have carved ivory handles. The service came from an estate in Brevard, N.C. Purchased new, it has always remained in the same family prior to being consigned to Shelley's.

An ivory phoenix came from another local estate, and in similar fashion to the Georg Jensen service, was passed down through several generations of the same family.

Within the estate jewelry category are sapphire and diamond rings, an exquisite Art Deco-style diamond bracelet, and a finely filigreed gold bracelet set with six classical cameos.

Also of note is the assortment of attractive malachite desk accessories. These beautiful pieces that have been carved from large crystals of malachite and would hold their own on even the finest antique desk.

Of particular interest to collectors of celebrity memorabilia, a collection of autographed or personally inscribed photos includes pictures of Joe Louis, Jack Benny, Benny Goodman, Abbott & Costello, Eddie Cantor, Fanny Brice and Bob Hope and several other 20th century entertainers and sports figures. An autographed "Best Wishes" card is signed by one-time heavyweight champion of the world Jack Johnson. The card includes a photo of the iconic African-American athlete.

For additional information on any lot in the sale, call 828-698-8485 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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View the fully illustrated catalog and register to bid absentee or live via the Internet as the sale is taking place by logging on to www.LiveAuctioneers.com.