Bellamys Ship Sails On

One of the most interesting pieces on offer in The Cobbs Auctioneers’ Fine Art, Jewelry, Rugs, Collectibles, and Americana sale has to be the "Don’t Give Up The Ship" Eagle banner by John Haley Bellamy. Selling as Lot 89 on Saturday, October 3, this finely carved original is an impressive piece of Americana descending from the heart of New England’s rich nautical tradition.

Bellamy has been variously described as a disciplined laborer, a helpless drunkard, a manic inventor, an aloof poet, an irresponsible pleasure-seeker, and a devoted kinsman. A 19th Century folk artist from Maine known for his stylishly carved wooden eagles, conceived for display on ships and homes, he was a confidant of Twain’s who kept mostly to himself. Bellamy never considered himself an artist, and is not known to have signed any of his pieces. Yet today, the demand for his carvings is such that they have sold at auction for upwards of $650,000.

Lot 16B - a diamond solitaire pendant

The Cobbs Auctioneers’ Fine Art, Jewelry, Rugs, Collectibles, and Americana sale is rich in the diversity of its offerings - 360 plus lots covering a host of categories that are sure to whet the appetite of seasoned collectors and new bidders alike.

Look now at the full catalog.

Lot 216 - the Mexican Taxco copper and silver coffee set and pitcher

Lot 186 - a 17 Century Persian valuables box

Lot 92A - the large 10 room doll house