New England Auctions – The Collection Of Thomas F. Schutte & Tess L. Schutte
Thursday October 10th & 11th
Complete Color Catalogue Available For Purchase At www.newenglandauctions.com
In Person Preview: October 2nd-4th & 7th-8th 9:30am-3:30pm October 9th 9:30am-2pm
475-234-5120
14 Business Park Dr, Branford, CT 06405

BRANFORD, CONN. — After a lifetime of collecting exceptional pieces of Americana, Thomas F. Schutte and Tess L. Schutte have announced the auction of their extensive and meticulously curated collection presented by New England Auctions. The auction marks the culmination of more than six decades of passion and dedication to the art of collecting early American antiques, with a focus on New England and Pennsylvania artifacts. The auction, organized by Fred Giampietro, owner of New England Auctions, will be conducted over two days on October 10 and 11, offering collectors a rare opportunity to acquire pieces that reflect a lifetime of passion for Americana.

The Schutte collection began humbly in the early years of their marriage with the purchase of an old oak washstand and a Rayo lamp. This modest start ignited a lifelong dedication to the world of antiques, eventually leading the couple to focus on artifacts from Pennsylvania and New England. After relocating to Rhode Island in 1983, their interests narrowed further, centering on Eighteenth Century New England furniture and decorative arts, which they carefully selected for their originality, condition and form.

Their collection grew as they restored historic homes in Newburyport and Ipswich, Mass., with Tom’s exuberance for authentic early American pieces driving much of the expansion. Tess fondly recalls Tom’s enthusiasm, joking that “he never met an early chair he didn’t like.” The couple’s shared commitment to high-quality antiques is evident in every piece of their collection.

Reflecting on their collecting journey, Tess emphasizes the importance of the relationships they’ve built over the years. “We have enjoyed and continue to value the enduring acquaintances and friendships made as we traveled to antiques shops and shows in Pennsylvania, New England and New York,” she said. “Thanks to their encouragement, guidance and mentoring, we were able to elevate and refine our collection over these many decades.”

Now, as they prepare to pass on their treasured collection, both Thomas and Tess express a deep hope that these items will bring as much joy to others as they have experienced. “The time has come to transfer the stewardship of our extensive collection,” Tess added. “Our hope is that these treasures will bring as much pleasure to others as they have to us.”

The auction by New England Auctions will provide collectors and enthusiasts with a rare opportunity to acquire pieces from a collection that has been thoughtfully assembled over the course of many years. New England Auctions, owned and led by Fred Giampietro, is a renowned auction house known for its expertise in American antiques and fine art. With more 40 years of experience, Fred has earned a reputation for offering high-quality pieces and providing exceptional service to collectors and dealers alike. The auction will be conducted online and in person, allowing collectors from across the United States to participate in this event.

In-person previews: October 1-4 and October 7-8 from 9 am until 2:30 pm and October 9 from 9 am until 12:30 pm. Limited private previews available by appointment at www.newenglandauctions.com.

New England Auctions is at 14 Business Park Drive. For information, 475-234-5120 or newenglandauctions.com.