FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Darrell Olgers
(804) 943-2283 or (804) 355-2100

RICHMOND, VA - Those wondering what lies inside of one of Richmond’s most stately mansions can now not only stop wondering, but also can own some of the contents themselves. An impressive collection of antique and reproduction furniture and fine art amassed over the years by the Brown family of Windemere Mansion on Cary Street Road will be auctioned by Motley’s Auction & Realty Group on April 2, 2008.

Built in the 1860s, the three-story mansion nestled on 3.1 acres was renovated and enlarged in 1907 to 11,000 square feet. The seven-bedroom, eight-bathroom house was highly praised for its interior décor and collection of fine art and furniture. Many of those items, ranging from an enviable collection of American and French antique furniture, fine art, sterling silver, Oriental rugs from small to palace size, and china and porcelain, are now being de-accessioned by the Brown family and will go home with the highest bidder on April 2.Additional items from Windemere that will be for sale include a spectacular pair of eagle form andirons, a Baldwin Concertmaster Grand piano, a stunning 19th-century tall post bed with an elaborate canopy, French empire cheval mirror, multiple gilt mirrors in a variety of styles and much more.

These items will be joined by items from other estates in and around Richmond, making Motley’s April 2nd sale “the ultimate Richmond auction,” said Darrell Olgers, Vice President of Motley’s Antiques and Estates Division. These lots include fine jewelry, including diamond and gold jewelry seized by local law enforcement; a collection of American brilliant cut glass; approximately 150 lots of fine art dating from the 18th century to present; a large selection of sterling silver; a spectacular selection of garden elements ranging from carved marble benches to a 6′ bronze fountain and statuary; an early tapestry; crystal stemware; a collection of ivory items; multiple clocks; a 14k gentleman¹s pocket watch; a silvered epergne; a collection of Napoleon related items; bronze and marble statuary and more.

Olgers stated that because of the quality, variety and provenance of the items in this sale, “We’re estimating it will be Motley’s blockbuster antiques and estate auction of the year, but as always, there’ll be deal to be had.”

The sale will start at 3 p.m. at Motley’s galleries at 4402 West Broad Street in Richmond, VA.

All lots are viewable at www.motleys.com or are available for personal inspection on Monday, March 31, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Tuesday, April 1, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Items can also be previewed on April 2, the day of the sale, from 10 a.m. until all lots are sold. Motley’s offers online (eBay Live), absentee and phone bidding for those unable to attend the auction in person.

For more information on any upcoming Motley’s auctions or their comprehensive appraisal services, visit motleys.com or call 804-355-2100.