A rare sized example of the highly collectible Martin & Bros Wally Bird tobacco jar is set to highlight Morphy Auctions' August 30-31 sale in Denver.
 The Wally Birds may be grotesque, but are highly collectible |
The grotesque tobacco jars have become famous with collectors, and are very much sought after by tobacciana collectors. The current example is estimated at $13,000-15,000.
R W Martin, founder of the company, was known for his avian designs, yet the sale also includes a 24-inch tall pitcher of an Eskimo in a full-length, hooded cloak. Made in 1903, it is valued at $10,000-12,000.
More unusual highlights of the sale is a 1848 parade hate used by a Philadelphia fire company in the Germantown parade. Reading "Hose 1" it is estimated at $8,000-12,000.
There is a fantastic selection of fire brigade memorabilia on offer, with ornate leather fire buckets estimated at $1,500-2,000.
African-Americana is represented by an early 20th century statue of an African boy with a baton, which is expected to sell for $2,000-3,000.
Paul Fraser Collectibles has some exceptional antique furniture for sale.
