An affirmation: John Townsend Highboy to be sold at Sotheby’s for $3,554,000

Fellow woodworkers! Don't lose hope. Even in this dire economical situation, where commissions are scarce and patrons are difficult to find, there is hope. In 250 years one of your (maybe even my own) pieces might be sold at an auction for $3,554,000. My friend Daniella Ohad Smith, who is a design historian, just posted breaking news about what might be one of the most expensive pieces of Important Americana sold in an auction in recent years. Read Daniella's story and be encouraged…

"If there is any single type of furniture that I find breathtaking in every way, it is the furniture made by John Townsend of Newport in the 18th century. He was the most forward-thinking cabinetmaker of his generation, who made his name with magnificent pieces, mostly carved with shells. An exceptional high chest by Townsend, crafted of mahogany with its maker's iconic shells (in 1756) has set an auction record today at Sotheby's sale of Important Americana when it was sold for $3,554,000."

                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Daniella Ohad Smith