Specialist Picks: James Bruce’s Highlights from the October Fine Sale

James Bruce, Specialist in the Interiors, Homes and Antiques department at Chiswick Auctions, has selected his five highlights from our upcoming Fine Sale on 13 October. His choices span exceptional examples of craftsmanship and design.

"Our second Fine Sale to date features a curated offering of over 200 lots. Selected objects traversing form, function, and epochs."

An Indo-Dutch (Dutch East Indies Co.) teak and ebonised chest of drawers, Circa 1780, Estimate £500 - £800

Constructed from teak, a tropical hardwood prized for its durability, framed with ebonised detailing and fitted with ornate brass ropetwist handles. Such chests were typically made for export to wealthy European households.

"An exceptional example of Indo-Dutch furniture. It was likely once owned by a wealthy trader travelling between Sri-Lanka, South India and Europe. Now to be offered in Chiswick."

A George I giltwood and gesso wall mirror In the manner of John Belchier (F.L 1699-D 1753), Estimate £800 - £1,200

With its broken swan-neck pediment, shell and acanthus moulding, and bevelled glass plate, this wall mirror reflects the boldness of early 18th-century English design. The giltwood and gesso frame is executed in the style of John Belchier.

"The wonderfully weathered glass pane hints at the age of this mirror, and the countless faces it has reflected over the past 300 years."

Edge of Manchester, a fine six-shot pepperbox revolver Circa 1840s, likely John William Edge of Manchester (1830-45), Estimate £1,000 - £1,500

This pepperbox revolver, complete with its original mahogany case and accessories stamped “EDGE, MANCHESTER,” showcases finely engraved steelwork, a fluted barrel, and a chequered walnut stock. Such weapons were favoured for their practicality and multiple-shot capability in an age before reliable revolvers became widespread.

"Provenance is key. With both a proposed maker and owner, this fine quality pepperbox is elevated above and beyond."

A William III and later walnut and seaweed marquetry longcase clock by John Shaw of Holborn, Estimate £2,000 - £3,000

Richly decorated, the painted walnut case with marquetry inlay of 'seaweed', tulips, and birds. The clock’s silvered chapter ring, engraved with Roman and Arabic numerals, is signed “John Smith in Holborne,” while the hood features barley twist columns and a moulded cornice. With handwritten paper label to the interior 'This clock belongs to Mr. Thomas P. Bigg-Wither'.

"There are longcase clocks and then there are longcase clocks. We are offering three very fine and very different examples within this auction, this one surely the pick of the lot"

A German Lüsterweibchen or 'little woman' chandelier, Second half of the 19th century, Estimate £400 - £600

The Lüsterweibchen, or “little woman” chandelier, is a fascinating form of decorative lighting with roots in German Renaissance tradition. This example with wrought iron frame alongside a carved and polychrome painted mythical woman with a fish tail, playing a lute.

"Admittedly not an item I’ve encountered before. This whimsical and enchanting chandelier is sure to capture imaginations."

These five highlights reflect the variety, craftsmanship, and historical depth that define Chiswick Auctions’ Fine Sale. From early Indo-Dutch furniture to rare clocks and whimsical lighting, the auction promises to attract both seasoned collectors and new buyers.

View the full catalogue and register to bid in the Fine Sale on 13 October.

If you are considering selling items from your own collection, contact our Interiors department for a complimentary valuation at valuations@chiswickauctions.co.uk or submit an online valuation.