Rivich Auction October 21 Fall Classic Catalog

CHICAGO - Rivich Auction is known for its liquidation of valuable goods, in particular fine and decorative art and antiques. However, a few weeks ago a call came in of a different nature which resulted in the consignment of a 2015 Bella Tori (USA) electric ride-on train. It will be offered as a special highlight of Rivich’s Oct. 21 online Fall Classic Auction.

Lot 101, Bella Tori Electric Train. Estimate $20,000-$60,000

“It is the kind of train seen at nice amusement parks or in garden settings at the homes of railroad enthusiasts who yearn to be conductors,” said Rebecca Rivich, co-owner of Rivich Auction. “Think Disney World, the Neverland Ranch, or any major amusement park that attracts a youthful, fun-loving crowd.” 

The train is being consigned by a Midwestern city. It has only been driven once or twice since its initial delivery and has remained safely stored and out of the elements for the past six years. Consisting of a locomotive, coal car, grain car, passenger car and caboose, it has “all the bells and whistles, literally,” Rivich said. Upgrades include leather seats, railroad crossing signs, a self-standing credit card payment kiosk, and an on-demand sound system that plays eight sounds, including “choo-choo” and a whistle.

It is also accompanied by its sturdy, purpose-built, 36-foot hitched metal trailer for easy transport and storage, as well as paperwork indicating it was bought in 2014 and arrived to its destination in 2015. With an original price tag of $100,000, the train will be offered online through Bidsquare as Lot 101. It has an opening bid of $10,000 and a $20,000-$60,000 estimate.

Lot 190, Set 4 Original Eames Herman Miller DKX chairs. Estimate $1,500-$3,000

Also featured in the Oct. 21 auction is a wonderful collection of Mid-century Modern and traditional items sourced from fine estates throughout the country. “One of those estates was a living time capsule – a home that was furnished in 1960 and not touched since,” said Rivich. The selection includes coveted furniture by Paul McCobb and additional items by Eames and other desirable brands. Other estates produced highlights such as a small gouache painting of a pug dog by Theodosia Townshend, accompanied by a letter of provenance stating it was in one of the Duchess of Windsor’s homes. Suiting more contemporary tastes, there is a 1990s New York City street-art rendition paying tribute to Jean-Michel Basquiat.

The online-only auction will take place on Thursday, October 21, 2021, starting at 10am Central Time/11am Eastern Time through Bidsquare. Absentee bidding is now open. The gallery preview will be held on Wednesday, October 20, from 10-4, at 415 N. Sangamon St., Chicago, IL 60642. For additional information contact Rebecca Rivich at 219-765-8219, email rivichauction@gmail.com or visit the company online at www.rivichauction.com.