FBI Tracing Treasure Trove of Art

Leslie James Skelton
Pike's Peak from Manitou Peak, Colorado - one of several dozen paintings found in the apartment of William M.V. Kingsland.

More than 300 works of art—paintings, sketches, sculptures, and other pieces by such artists as Pablo Picasso, John Singleton Copley, Alberto Giacometti, Giorgio Morandi, and Eugene Boudin — were discovered in this man's apartment after his death.

Well known in New York City’s art circles as an engaging and intelligent connoisseur of art, books, architecture, and genealogy. But when he died, he left no will… and no apparent heirs to claim the floor-to-ceiling stacks of paintings and art works crammed into his one-bedroom apartment man of which have been confirmed as stolen, according to the FBI.

For more info, click HERE and help solve the riddle of a mysterious man's mysterious past.

A Little Chinese - To Go

Just in to Antiqueswest, a massive dining table... handsomely carved and accompanied by four sturdy chairs. Consignor offers a host of photos to help you make your decision...

Early California Comes Out of the Bank Vault

Another lovely find arrives at Antiqueswest.com.

This one is a massive 4.5'x6' early California (circa 1870) landscape by Ransom Gillette Holdredge, in its original frame, and signed lower left and rear. The scene is a handsome rendering of late afternoon along Penetencia Creek in Santa Clara County, cattle grazing along the meandering arroyo, the hillsides touched by golden light.

We are pleased to have it. It hung in a bank in Northern California for some time, apparently, as there are some property tags on the back.

Another Note from Pawnee Bill

Just one you think you've seen all the Pawnee Bill Lillie things you're going to see for awhile up comes more letters and memorabilia. Scroll down for a look at a drum believed used in Bill's Wild West Show.

All items sent in from friends of Antiqueswest who saw similar items posted here. That's part of the fun, talking about interesting old bits that crop up from time to time. More on the way. Check out the antiques section when you can and thanks for writing and calling!

Rats!

Well, close but no cigar. I hail from the "all or nothing" school and it seems our CS Oval with Stars is a no show... though it had style. Floating around in the bottom of a cigar box at the house I decided to offer the plate for sale at a favorable rate, immediately setting off alarm bells from some of the biggest names -- well, actually the biggest names in the business, several of whom said they were "90 percent certain" it was "right."

Turns out it's a very old restrike, done in a wax mold and loaded with deep patina - just like the real deal. If it had been found genuine, I was going to take the family out to dinner and put a new roof on the hacienda on the proceeds.

Instead, back into the cigar box! Thanks to all of you who wrote us about this piece and to the real pros in the business who looked this plate over for me. Gentlemen all!