Gus Wilson Boston terrier carving could see $175,000 with Skinner

A life size carving of a Boston bull terrier carved by Augustus "Gus" Wilson circa 1930-1935 is to lead Skinner's American Furniture and Decorative Art sale in Boston on October 27.

It carries an estimate of $125,000-175,000.

Wilson (1864-1950) was a lighthouse keeper and decoy maker based in Maine, renowned for his animal carvings.

The terrier is constructed in the manner of his famous tigers, including layered construction and thick, enamelled paint.

Wilson Boston terrier Skinner
Wilson is renowned for his close imitation of nature

His work has achieved impressive prices in the past, with a preening elder drake making $150,000 at an auction at Copley in Boston.

A Paul Revere junior silver cann circa 1780, featuring an engraved coat of arms and a pear shaped body, carries an identical estimate of $125,000-175,000.

Paul Revere cann Skinner
Revere was a revolutionary patriot and silversmith

Both a silversmith and a major figure in the American Revolution, Paul Revere is most famous for warning the American militia of the approach of British forces on the eve of the battles of Lexington and Concord on April 17, 1775 - a feat for which he was immortalised in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem, Paul Revere's Ride.

The cann is in near mint condition, justifying its high estimate. Work by Paul Revere has sold well in previous auctions, with a rare teapot featuring his mark making $230,500 in January of this year.

A pair of silver casters by Revere circa 1772 are also on offer, with an estimate of $75,000-150,000.

A Federal mahogany carved and inlaid lady's bookcase is another notable lot, valued at $100,000-150,000.

Attributed to Thomas Seymour circa 1807-1812, the case features decorative eglomise (reverse glass) painting and superior craftsmanship.

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