Sweepstakes family gems offer lotto opportunity at Mealy’s

Des O’Sullivan on the McGrath family estate sale which offers something for all collectors.

Hicks furniture, Irish giltwood mirrors, paintings and silver from the McGrath family of Irish Hospital Sweepstakes fame, will feature at Mealy’s three day sale in Castlecomer next Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

From antique tea caddies to long case clocks, crested family silver, rare books, early Waterford Crystal and fine tables to important portraits, the sale — billed as the Collections of Estates and Aesthetes — offers something for all collectors.

The catalogue cover is a portrait of Edward Hodson attributed to Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723) estimated at €5,000-€7,000.

There is a good selection of small antique furniture pieces in great condition. Irish gilt wood mirrors are always in demand and there is a selection of same.

Art works includes a folio by Salvador Dali and a work by Utrillo.

All the sales start at 11am and Thursday’s auction is a thrift sale with a highly affordable selection.

The auction includes lots from the Marquess of Ripon collection through a direct descendant, including some crested flatware and the 1916 Sinn Féin Cup awarded for the protection of Trinity College during the Rising.

Viewing is in Castlecomer, Co Kilkenny from noon to 5pm tomorrow (October 19) and from 10am to 5pm on Monday.