Norfolk, UK - Carl Willows said that the auctioneers struggled to get the first bid in a generally subdued air at the architectural salvage sale on 21 August at Gaze's of Diss. However, there was a better mix of bidders with more trade than previously this year.

Two 17thC stained glass roundel hangers were one of the highlights of the sale but sold for a slightly disappointing £200 and £350. Most of the York flagstone did not sell this time. "It was right off the boil," said Mr Willows, with top lot being 60sqyds of flag selling at £5k, which included a 72ins by 29ins tablet.

What was 'on the boil' then? "The quirky," he said. For example, the mini shepherd's hut, seen recently on Tina Pasco's stand at the Salvo Fair, went for a creditable £3,400. A large tortoise stove, approx 54ins high, sold for a double estimate £580 to the delight of a churchwarden from Billingford whose church coffers are glad recipients.

A notable item in this sale was a Georgian six-panelled front door complete with original doorcase and door furniture - a steal at £500. French oak floorboards sold for £42.50sqm, and 18thC oak boards to 15ins wide sold for £53sqyd.

Next sale will be rural bygones, this time including a single collection of 200 lots, on 25 September, followed by another architectural sale on 6 November.

Gaze: 21 August 2010 auction results

Story Type:  News

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