BRANFORD, CONN. — A vast assortment of antiques crossed the block in New England Auctions’ May 6-7 auctions, which included May Americana in session one and Historical, Medical Antiques, Medallions & Books for session two. From the estate of Dr Jerry Phelps (Kentucky) came 15 lots of apothecary items — predominantly leeches jars, including the sale’s top lot. Rising well beyond its $1/2,000 estimate, the vibrant green earthenware leeches jar had foliate decoration to the rim borders and leech-head handles and sucked out the high price of $23,940, including buyer’s premium. With hand-painted gilt decoration and “Leeches” label, the Nineteenth Century English pedestal jar measured 14½ inches tall and had a 10-inch rim diameter. More leeches jars and other highlights will be featured in an upcoming issue.
