Donegal carpet chief among a wealth of exciting sale items

Des O’Sullivan looks forward to what promises to be an eventful auction in Castlecomer next Wednesday.

With everything from a large cut granite 19th century Irish fountain, busts of Roman emperors, a bronze of Michael Collins and a specially commissioned Donegal carpet Mealy’s one day mid summer sale in Castlecomer next Wednesday at 11am offers lots sure to interest all collectors.

A monumental William IV Irish side table is ideal for the sort of larger residence now changing hands more frequently in Ireland. This version is estimated at €15,000 to €20,000. The estimate on a fine pair of c1800 Cork Glass Co decanters is €2,000 to €3,000.

The New Ireland carpet is a large royal blue ground Donegal carpet inscribed with a harp, a gold link border and Celtic motifs.

Half a century ago this was a complex commission by New Ireland Assurance for their Dublin office in 1964. The medallion detail is 64 knots per square inch as against 16 in the main body. The junction is imperceptible and the carpet is estimated at €15,000 to €25,000.

The auction of more than 600 lots includes a full size billiard table, antique furniture, art, jewellery, porcelain and collectibles including a life size stuffed and mounted stag and a decanter in the shape of an eagle.

Viewing in Castlecomer is from noon to 5pm tomorrow (July 12) and from 10 am to 5pm on Monday and Tuesday.