Some Interesting Maritime Items in Art Auctions

You will be surprised to find that there are actually many nice maritime items available in art auctions, not to mention if you look well and hard enough, of course. Although the demand for maritime items may not be as hot as it was in the past, there are still some who would go into greater depths just to find nice pieces. Several maritime art collectors would not mind the high cost that they have to pay just to acquire especially the rare maritime items. Art auctions are a great place where you can find really interesting maritime pieces on the auction block.

An art auction in Charleston last month featured a pair of 19th century candle powered navigation lights that were used on ships as well as lighthouse stairwells. Lighthouse items have also become a popular feature in art auctions as well. An antique brass oil lamp, which will be held for sale in an auction, is estimated to go for about fifteen hundred dollars. This would be an excellent addition to your maritime collection.

Also, a New Hampshire art auction sold an 1891 chronometer, which, until now surprisingly functions well and keeps great time. What is so distinct about the chronometer is that it has a broad arrow indicating that it was bought the British Navy, known for having highly discriminating taste in, as well as the best timepieces. Another chronometer that was found in a Dallas art auction came with a wooden box from a previous owner who had kept this maritime item in a closet for about fifty years.

A few years ago, an art auction in Miami featured a fabulous maritime item that was considered an excellent collector’s catch. It was compass that was made in Persia and more than a hundred years, which had all twelve signs of the zodiac engraved on it.

Also, an art auction in Hartford sold maritime Navy anchors that weighed three hundred pounds. These would give a great new look to your yard, especially around trees. Moreover, a Mississippi art auction showcased an original builder’s plate from the SS Contessa. The item was a truly unique find that bidders were actually fighting over who was going to win it. It would gleam even more with a little polishing and could spruce up the look of your room.

Brass plaques from old ships have always been a favorite maritime item for many auction bidders. An interesting maritime piece was a plaque from a ship called the Marechal Joffe that was used during World War II and was taken from the French in 1942. The ship was later renamed USS Rochambeau by the Maritime Commission.