GOING … GOING … GONE: Freeman’s Oct. 7 auction of English and Continental furniture and decorative arts includes more than 30 pieces of exuberant, extravagant and almost certainly expensive majolica. Collected by philanthropist Michael Coslov, the 70-odd pieces reflect the Victorian obsession with all things gastronomic, including a rare Minton game tureen (pictured) decorated with hare and mallard heads that’s expected to fetch up to $30,000.
Characterized by colorful tin glazes, majolica was one of the hottest crazes in ceramics in the second half of the 19th century. Production petered out around 1900. Also on the block is an 1875 flat-iron teapot with a handle topped by a kitten, which is contemplating a mouse perched on the lid. The auction also features an array of antique furniture. The bidding starts at 10 a.m. 1808 Chestnut St., Philadelphia. (215) 563-9297. Visit www.freemansauction.com.
