WHITCHURCH auctioneers Trevanion and Dean has been exploring the world of art deco at their most recent sale.

Following the success of their first sale of the year, the March auction turned out some spectacular results and broke their previous spring sale records.

The top price of the day was taken by a stunning art deco minaudiere, crafted by renowned French jewellers Van Cleef and Arpels, which sold for a staggering £7,600.

Auctioneer Christina Trevanion oversaw a fierce bidding war between bidders in the room, on the phone and online, which culminated in the minaudiere selling to a London based collector.

“Van Cleef and Arpels is a name which always generates a buzz at auction, as one of the most important and defining jewellery houses of the 20th century,” jewellery specialist Helena Waudby explained.

“The minaudiere featured in this month’s auction was absolutely exquisite; it is quintessentially art deco in its style, which always attracts the eye of our bidders.

"Its vibrant red enamel is in virtually perfect condition, which is incredible for a piece of this age.

"But it’s the smaller, more refined details which set this piece apart, such as the top-quality diamonds set to the clasp, and the delightful gold mechanical pencil enclosed within it.

"It was a rare jewel, and a real treat to handle such a piece!”

The sale saw further success with a collection of furniture from a country estate in Wales which fetched a handsome sum of £13,000 in total.

Highlights from the furniture section include a George III mahogany chest of drawers which sold for £2,600, and a 19th century pine breakfront wardrobe which fetched £2,600.

Elsewhere in the sale, a private consignment of silverware from a Cheshire based collector caught the attention of bidders, boasting pieces by some of Britain’s most renowned and sought-after silversmiths.

The most impressive price came from an early 20th century silver toast rack by The Keswick School of Industrial Art as well as a planished silver dish, also by the Keswick School.

Of the sale, Christina said results on the day were fantastic.

“There were fantastic results in every section of the auction on Saturday – it was very exciting," she said.

"The team have worked hard to put together a great catalogue and do the best they can for our vendors, and that is reflected in this month’s results.”