Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Friday, October 26, 2007
BOOK SIGNING - HISTORIC PROPERTIES
Catskill, NY – On Sunday, October 28, at 2 p.m., noted author Harrison F. Meeske will lecture at Beattie-Powers Place, an historic site bequeathed to the Village of Catskill and maintained by the Friends of Beattie-Powers, a non-profit community preservation group.
Meeske’s presentation coincides with the publication of "From Vernacular to Spectacular", published by Purple Mountain Press, Fleischmanns, NY. Author Meeske will also sign copies of his new book.
The upper Hudson Valley of New York is nationally recognized for its scores of 18th and 19th century estates that date back to the arrival of Dutch settlers from 1730 through 1830. Meeske will focus on how function follows form in the construction of these historic properties and estates.
In addition to other historic sites, "From Vernacular to Spectacular" also features Beattie-Powers Place in both text and photography, a surviving example of an historic merchant’s home with a spectacular view of the Hudson River. A doctoral graduate of New York University, Meeske is also author of "The Hudson Valley Dutch and Their Houses."
A suggested donation of $10 is requested.
Directions
From exit #21 of the New York State Thruway, turn left onto Route 23B, Main Street, to Bridge Street in Catskill, turn left onto Bridge Street, continue to Prospect Avenue; or from the east, cross the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, Route 23, to the first traffic light, turn left onto Spring Street, Route 385, to Bridge Street, turn left again to Prospect Avenue.
For information, call (518) 943-4764, or visit online – www.friendsofbeattiepowers.org
Meeske’s presentation coincides with the publication of "From Vernacular to Spectacular", published by Purple Mountain Press, Fleischmanns, NY. Author Meeske will also sign copies of his new book.
The upper Hudson Valley of New York is nationally recognized for its scores of 18th and 19th century estates that date back to the arrival of Dutch settlers from 1730 through 1830. Meeske will focus on how function follows form in the construction of these historic properties and estates.
In addition to other historic sites, "From Vernacular to Spectacular" also features Beattie-Powers Place in both text and photography, a surviving example of an historic merchant’s home with a spectacular view of the Hudson River. A doctoral graduate of New York University, Meeske is also author of "The Hudson Valley Dutch and Their Houses."
A suggested donation of $10 is requested.
Directions
From exit #21 of the New York State Thruway, turn left onto Route 23B, Main Street, to Bridge Street in Catskill, turn left onto Bridge Street, continue to Prospect Avenue; or from the east, cross the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, Route 23, to the first traffic light, turn left onto Spring Street, Route 385, to Bridge Street, turn left again to Prospect Avenue.
For information, call (518) 943-4764, or visit online – www.friendsofbeattiepowers.org
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
A Day in the Life ..
Last weekend I had the pleasure of saying 'hello' to Leigh Keno of Antiques Roadshow fame. Our encounter took place on the last day of "ArtsWalk" in Hudson, NY. Always a good guy, Leigh spoke about his strong interest in very fine 20th Century Design.
By the way, a week earlier, I had an opportunity to share my 68th birthday with more than 50 friends on September 30 with Patrick and Alyson Milbourn as hosts at their M Gallery in Catskill, NY. The mood was relaxed and enjoyable, with the added benefit of a duo by entertainers Lex Grey and Jason Brown. Special thanks also to Sterling Swann and the many others who contributed their time, refreshments and excellent food.
What's coming up .. ? On Saturday, October 13, merchants along Catskill's Main Street will host their monthly 'Saturday Stroll', with shops and galleries staying open until 9 in the evening. Most will serve refreshments. This is always a popular event that attracts hundreds if not a thousand visitors to this picturesque historic community, exit #21 of the New York State Thruway. Special events during the afternoon are geared to children. All in all, a lot of fun for everyone! On Sunday, October 14, Beattie-Powers Place, a circa-1850 historic merchant's house, offers its annual 'Potluck Lunch' at 1 p.m. This important historic site is maintained by the Friends of Beattie-Powers, a volunteer group. Everyone is welcome. Bring a dish or a suggested donation of $10, you won't be disappointed. Also on tap is a performance by our favorite songstress, Lex Grey. It is as of a helicopter from Las Vegas has landed!
By the way, a week earlier, I had an opportunity to share my 68th birthday with more than 50 friends on September 30 with Patrick and Alyson Milbourn as hosts at their M Gallery in Catskill, NY. The mood was relaxed and enjoyable, with the added benefit of a duo by entertainers Lex Grey and Jason Brown. Special thanks also to Sterling Swann and the many others who contributed their time, refreshments and excellent food.
What's coming up .. ? On Saturday, October 13, merchants along Catskill's Main Street will host their monthly 'Saturday Stroll', with shops and galleries staying open until 9 in the evening. Most will serve refreshments. This is always a popular event that attracts hundreds if not a thousand visitors to this picturesque historic community, exit #21 of the New York State Thruway. Special events during the afternoon are geared to children. All in all, a lot of fun for everyone! On Sunday, October 14, Beattie-Powers Place, a circa-1850 historic merchant's house, offers its annual 'Potluck Lunch' at 1 p.m. This important historic site is maintained by the Friends of Beattie-Powers, a volunteer group. Everyone is welcome. Bring a dish or a suggested donation of $10, you won't be disappointed. Also on tap is a performance by our favorite songstress, Lex Grey. It is as of a helicopter from Las Vegas has landed!
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
JOIN US ON SEPTEMBER 23RD @ NOON, AT THE DUCHTMAN'S LANDING TO CELEBRATE THE COMPLETION OF THE SUNDIAL
After many labor-intensive days Dina Bursztyn and a team of devoted volunteers have finished the community sundial at the Dutchman's Landing Park.
The sundial was built using ceramic and glass shards, found on the nearby riverbanks. The place was formerly a dump and many of these shards are fragments of turn of the century pottery, bricks and glass from earlier local industry, farm crockery, etc. These archaeological samples of an era in Catskill history were recycled in a colorful sundial.
This project was conceived by Dina Bursztyn, artist, arts educator and co-owner of the Open Studio, a gallery on Main St. in Catskill. Dina has been awarded many public art commissions, by NYC MTA Arts in Transit Program, Department of Cultural Affairs Percent for Arts Program, and the Public Art Fund, among others.
This project was made possible (in part) with public funds from the Decentralization Program of the New York State Council on the Arts, administered through the Twin Counties Cultural Fund in Greene County by the Greene County Council on the Arts.
Additional support was provided by Julie Chase; Lin and Bruce Anderson; Datapak Associates, Inc.; Armando Painting. Also, many thanks to the many volunteers and contributors. Thanks to the Catskill Rotary Club for granting space in their garden area and to HOCA for being the fiscal conduit.
For and more information please e-mail Dina at catskillstudio@aol.com or call 518-943-9531.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Current Real Estate Report
Friends, clients and colleagues,
The current Real Estate Report is a pleasant sojourn into gardening in our region, both ornamental and kitchen gardening, with an historical perspective. Part is based on DeGuerre's and my experience with formal gardens of both types, and part comes from a conversation with Randy Hinz of The Sycamore Garden Center and Nursery (Columbiaville) , a talented horticulturalist who is helping to transform the gardens and landscapes in our region. Attached is Part 1 of this Report, the balance will be featured in October.
I have just sent off to Rizzoli the manuscript for the newest book, Great New England Houses. The photography of these beautiful houses, by Geoffrey Gross, is stunning (as was the case for our book Dutch Colonial Homes in America (Rizzoli 2002). Look for it next May. We are also working on its companion volume, Early New England Houses, which will be out a year from now.
Speaking of gardening and country places, one of my special delights is the English country living cartoons of Norman Thelwell which I will share with you each month (see below). They have appeared in Punch over many years and then were put together in books on various hilarious subjects. Best regards, Rod
(PS If you feel this report comes to you in error just reply to that effect.)
Roderic H. Blackburn, Broker
R. H. Blackburn & Associates, Inc. Real Estate
Main Office 17 Broad Street Kinderhook NY 12106
518 758-1788 Fax 518 758-6211 blackburn@berk.com
www.rhblackburn.com www.GreatPeriodHouses.com
Branch offices at Hudson, Catskill and Athens
Friday, August 31, 2007
Brimfield Antiques Show
For the past two decades, I've visited Brimfield three times a year .. May,July and September. A remarkable experience! Literally, thousands of dealers set up to sell to tens of thousands of buyers from across the US and from Europe and Asia. An interesting article appeared today (8/30/2007) in the Boston Globe (linked below). Enjoy! H. M. Hanson
Headline: Meet Bruce Littlefield, flea-market king
Date: August 30, 2007
"Just a few moments into my inaugural trip to the Brimfield Antique Show in
May, I managed to commit a faux pas that would make the most seasoned
garage-sale lover wince: I paid asking price."
READ FULL ARTICLE:
Meet Bruce Littlefield, Flea Market King
Monday, August 27, 2007
A Day in the Life ..
Recently, I asked a friend, Sterling Swann, to staff the antiques and art gallery I share with Pierre Boulee, Boulay Antiques, in Hudson, NY. He had an experience of some interest. We thank him for his forebearance!
Tending an antique shop is a unique experience in human dealings. The novice would think that the sitter would do just that: sit and wait for the customers to stroll in, make their selections, swap a few words of pleasantries and collect the proceeds. Sometimes that's the scenario. Not always.
Saturday afternoon, I am sitting in shop in Hudson New York. The day is brutally hot, punctuated by the drone of the air conditioner struggling to keep the inside temperature lower than the sweltering outsides. A gentle mix of customers passing through. Some have questions, most "just strolling".
One particular customer came in with a party of three other adults and a youngster, maybe age 7. I serve up the usual greeting and encourage them to take their time and look around. They spend time looking at many objects throughout the eclectic collection of glassware, furniture, collectibles textiles and much more. Finally, the group stall in the art books section and spends considerable time glancing through pages while having a muted discussion on the offerings. I can faintly hear an ongoing discussion on one particular title. It seems that one of the browsers has an interest in the book. Finally, the well heeled browser approaches the desk where I am sitting. I look up from my own edition of the NY Times. "Excuse me, sir. What is the price of this book?' He's clutching the fabric covered hardback publication to his chest. I reach out, and take the book which he seems reluctant to hand over. The price label is in plain sight. "Thirty dollars", I echoed the price on the label. "Well, can you do any better," came the immediate response.
Me: Maybe some better.
The book was a handsome volume. The cover intact, in new like condition.
He: I want it but I don't want to pay thirty dollars for it.
Me: Well, what do you want to pay for it.
He: Twenty dollars. I want it for twenty dollars.
Me: I can't do it for twenty dollars.
He looked crest fallen.
He: But that's what I want to pay for it.
Me: Why don't we meet in the middle. I will sell it for twenty five dollars.
I felt that a five dollar discount was a fair discount on a thirty dollar item. After all, there are expenses. The air conditioner continued its incessant drone.
He reached for the book and clutched it again near his chest, like a prized possession. Finally, he reached for his wallet.
He: I have twenty two dollars.
A twenty and two ones appeared.
The youngster was telling him that he had some money and would be willing to lend him enough to get the book until later.
Me: The price is twenty five.
Back to the NY Times.
He: Well, I am not sure that I really want this book. I thought I would get it for the right price. It might not be of any use to me.
Me: Well, sir: That is something you have to decide for yourself. But the price is twenty five dollars.
He: But it might not be of use to me.
Me: Twenty five dollars. Not bothering to look up from the NY Times.
My attention went to the Michael Vick, gambling and dog fighting. The air conditioner labored on. Peripherally, I could see the group of browsers huddled in the book section. Circling the wagons?
"Excuse me sir, came the lilting voice. What is the best price you can do on this book?."
The youngster was standing before me holding the same book as the previous adult. His innocent eyes punctuated his question. The other adults remained in the circle with all eyes on the younger.
Me: Twenty five dollars.
Younger: (Sweetly, only as a child could say it.) I mean what is the rock bottom price for this book.
Me: The same as it was ten minutes ago, twenty five dollars.
The younger clutched the book and rejoined the circle.
"He wouldn't budge", one of the adult voices waffled from the huddle.
Finally after some chatter in the group the original browser came to the desk. I look up and smiled. Sweetly.
"I'll take it he said"
Me: That's great.
He went through the ritual of extracting a twenty and five ones from his designer leather wallet. I held the and looked at the money on the desk. Frozen, not moving. Waiting.
"Oh, can I have it without paying taxes"?
The air conditioner droned, the huddle watched from a safe distance.
"Why sure! Enjoy".
Sometimes, it is better to accept a compromised victory.
"Please come again", I said as the entourage moved towards the door , led by the browser clutching his new purchase to his chest.
Tending an antique shop is a unique experience in human dealings. The novice would think that the sitter would do just that: sit and wait for the customers to stroll in, make their selections, swap a few words of pleasantries and collect the proceeds. Sometimes that's the scenario. Not always.
Saturday afternoon, I am sitting in shop in Hudson New York. The day is brutally hot, punctuated by the drone of the air conditioner struggling to keep the inside temperature lower than the sweltering outsides. A gentle mix of customers passing through. Some have questions, most "just strolling".
One particular customer came in with a party of three other adults and a youngster, maybe age 7. I serve up the usual greeting and encourage them to take their time and look around. They spend time looking at many objects throughout the eclectic collection of glassware, furniture, collectibles textiles and much more. Finally, the group stall in the art books section and spends considerable time glancing through pages while having a muted discussion on the offerings. I can faintly hear an ongoing discussion on one particular title. It seems that one of the browsers has an interest in the book. Finally, the well heeled browser approaches the desk where I am sitting. I look up from my own edition of the NY Times. "Excuse me, sir. What is the price of this book?' He's clutching the fabric covered hardback publication to his chest. I reach out, and take the book which he seems reluctant to hand over. The price label is in plain sight. "Thirty dollars", I echoed the price on the label. "Well, can you do any better," came the immediate response.
Me: Maybe some better.
The book was a handsome volume. The cover intact, in new like condition.
He: I want it but I don't want to pay thirty dollars for it.
Me: Well, what do you want to pay for it.
He: Twenty dollars. I want it for twenty dollars.
Me: I can't do it for twenty dollars.
He looked crest fallen.
He: But that's what I want to pay for it.
Me: Why don't we meet in the middle. I will sell it for twenty five dollars.
I felt that a five dollar discount was a fair discount on a thirty dollar item. After all, there are expenses. The air conditioner continued its incessant drone.
He reached for the book and clutched it again near his chest, like a prized possession. Finally, he reached for his wallet.
He: I have twenty two dollars.
A twenty and two ones appeared.
The youngster was telling him that he had some money and would be willing to lend him enough to get the book until later.
Me: The price is twenty five.
Back to the NY Times.
He: Well, I am not sure that I really want this book. I thought I would get it for the right price. It might not be of any use to me.
Me: Well, sir: That is something you have to decide for yourself. But the price is twenty five dollars.
He: But it might not be of use to me.
Me: Twenty five dollars. Not bothering to look up from the NY Times.
My attention went to the Michael Vick, gambling and dog fighting. The air conditioner labored on. Peripherally, I could see the group of browsers huddled in the book section. Circling the wagons?
"Excuse me sir, came the lilting voice. What is the best price you can do on this book?."
The youngster was standing before me holding the same book as the previous adult. His innocent eyes punctuated his question. The other adults remained in the circle with all eyes on the younger.
Me: Twenty five dollars.
Younger: (Sweetly, only as a child could say it.) I mean what is the rock bottom price for this book.
Me: The same as it was ten minutes ago, twenty five dollars.
The younger clutched the book and rejoined the circle.
"He wouldn't budge", one of the adult voices waffled from the huddle.
Finally after some chatter in the group the original browser came to the desk. I look up and smiled. Sweetly.
"I'll take it he said"
Me: That's great.
He went through the ritual of extracting a twenty and five ones from his designer leather wallet. I held the and looked at the money on the desk. Frozen, not moving. Waiting.
"Oh, can I have it without paying taxes"?
The air conditioner droned, the huddle watched from a safe distance.
"Why sure! Enjoy".
Sometimes, it is better to accept a compromised victory.
"Please come again", I said as the entourage moved towards the door , led by the browser clutching his new purchase to his chest.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
NEIGHBOR HIGHLIGHTED IN THE NY TIMES
In the July 5 issue of the New York Times, a new neighbor in the village of Catskill is featured. Variegated is a new home furnishings shop located at 377 Main Street. Owners Jim Deskevich and Corbett Marshall are graphic and textile designers with a unique eye and style. Catskill is easily accessible from Exit #21 of the NYS Thruway. To see the special offerings of Variegated, visit: variegatedinc.com
For more information, call 518 943-1313.
For more information, call 518 943-1313.
ON-SITE COUNTRY AUCTION
On Saturday, July 21, at 10:30, the well-regarded Carlsen Gallery of Freehold,NY, will hold an old-fashioned antiques auction at 5 County Route 403 in Westerlo, NY.
The auction site is in very southern Albany County, a few miles north of Greenville, which is easily accessible from Exit 21B of the NYS Thruway, via Route 9W to Route 81 West, turning onto Route 32 North in Greenville. Route 32 will take you to Route 403.
The Carlsens were chosen to sell the contents of the home of the late Audrey Lee, and items from the Sullivan/Bowdoin family of Massachusetts, in addition to other new-to-the-market antiques moved to this on-site auction.
Expect to find antique country, Empire and oak furniture; country and fancy accessories; African objects; a doctor's buggy and sleigh; paintings and prints; Sterling silver and vintage silverplate; china and glass; quilts; clocks, and much more.
For a sneak preview of this quality onsite sale, visit: www.carlsengallery.com
The auction site is in very southern Albany County, a few miles north of Greenville, which is easily accessible from Exit 21B of the NYS Thruway, via Route 9W to Route 81 West, turning onto Route 32 North in Greenville. Route 32 will take you to Route 403.
The Carlsens were chosen to sell the contents of the home of the late Audrey Lee, and items from the Sullivan/Bowdoin family of Massachusetts, in addition to other new-to-the-market antiques moved to this on-site auction.
Expect to find antique country, Empire and oak furniture; country and fancy accessories; African objects; a doctor's buggy and sleigh; paintings and prints; Sterling silver and vintage silverplate; china and glass; quilts; clocks, and much more.
For a sneak preview of this quality onsite sale, visit: www.carlsengallery.com
Friday, July 6, 2007
Cedar Grove’s Fourth Annual Summer Party
Catskill, NY - The biggest event of the year at the Thomas Cole National Historic Site is happening on Saturday, July 21, at 5 p.m., when hundreds of supportive party-goers will enjoy cocktails on the porch of the Federal-style Main House, home of the founder of the Hudson River School, followed by privately hosted dinners at spectacular nearby homes.
Flowers will again be donated and arranged by Douglas Koch, renowned florist whose accounts include Bloomingdales, the Helmsley Hotels, Peninsula Hotel, Plaza Athenee, Elizabeth Arden, Altria, JP Morgan Chase, Solomon Smith Barney, Morgan Stanley, and many others.
The event is themed around Thomas Cole's 1846 painting entitled "The Pic-Nic", featuring Cole with his friends and family enjoying a beautiful summer day with wine, food and music. In the painting, Thomas Cole is seen playing an Italian guitar with special floral detailing, a work of art now on view at Cedar Grove. The guitar is on loan for the season from Alexander Gallery in New York City. The painting is reproduced in full color on the invitation, courtesy of Ruder Finn, Inc., with additional printing donated by Hillcrest Press. Catering is by Georgia Ray's Country Caterers and photography is by Brian Branigan.
Chair of the event is Lisa Fox Martin, assisted by the event committee of Pamela Belfor, Frank Cuthbert, Jackie Dunn, Ronnie McCue, and Amy Von Scholtz.
Dinners will be hosted by Jean and Richard Bassin, Pamela and Theodore Belfor, Rosalind Daly and Glenda Ruby, Lisa Fox Martin and Dick May, Friends of Beattie-Powers, Carrie and Nick Haddad, Howard Hall Farm and Stewart House, Peter O’Hara and John Garofalo, Purcell and Jim Palmer, Ray Pierce and Bob Gillis, Janeen Sarlin, Michele Saunders, Betsy and Alfred Scott, and Ethel and Ken Williams.
Tickets are $75 for members or $100 for not-yet-members. Early reservations are encouraged. Checks can be mailed and made payable to Thomas Cole Historic Site, P.O. Box 426, Catskill, NY 12414.
For more information, call (518) 943-7465, or visit: www.thomascole.org
Thursday, June 21, 2007
NEWLY ARRIVED - AMERICAN SILVERSMITHS
Just aquired .. Stephen Ensko's 'American Silversmiths and Their Marks III', a privately printed book from 1948, very rare. A comprehensive review of hundreds of silversmiths and their maker marks in early America. No dust jacket, but in fine condition. Accompanied by maps of early New York and Pennsylvania. $45.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
DESTINATION - ROCHESTER, NY
Worth the trip! Interstate 90 will take you to the Memorial Art Gallery, at State University of New York/Rochester.
On Thursday, June 28, from 5:30 p.m., in the Auditorium, enjoy an illustrated lecture by antiques appraiser Rupert Fennell, followed by a reception, 6:30 to 8:30 in Cutler Union. This is an opportunity to browse and buy ahead of the crowd expected for the annual Arts & Treasures Sale that will be open to the public taking the next day. Admission is $25 and includes the lecture, reception and sale.
Fennell spent 29 years with Sotheby¹s, retiring in 1998 as vice president and senior decorative arts appraiser. His primary focus is American, English and Continental decorative arts from the late 17th through the early 20th century. He remains active as an appraiser, consultant, lecturer and auctioneer.
The Art & Treasures Sale, in Cutler Union, is on Friday and Saturday, June 29 & 30. Hours: Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free.
Friday¬Saturday, June 29-30
Don't miss the chance to buy great bargains in gently used furniture, antiques, jewelry, silver, crystal, china, rugs and (of course) fine art.
Memorial Art Gallery is located at 500 University Avenue, Rochester, New York. For information, call (585) 473-7720.
On Thursday, June 28, from 5:30 p.m., in the Auditorium, enjoy an illustrated lecture by antiques appraiser Rupert Fennell, followed by a reception, 6:30 to 8:30 in Cutler Union. This is an opportunity to browse and buy ahead of the crowd expected for the annual Arts & Treasures Sale that will be open to the public taking the next day. Admission is $25 and includes the lecture, reception and sale.
Fennell spent 29 years with Sotheby¹s, retiring in 1998 as vice president and senior decorative arts appraiser. His primary focus is American, English and Continental decorative arts from the late 17th through the early 20th century. He remains active as an appraiser, consultant, lecturer and auctioneer.
The Art & Treasures Sale, in Cutler Union, is on Friday and Saturday, June 29 & 30. Hours: Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free.
Friday¬Saturday, June 29-30
Don't miss the chance to buy great bargains in gently used furniture, antiques, jewelry, silver, crystal, china, rugs and (of course) fine art.
Memorial Art Gallery is located at 500 University Avenue, Rochester, New York. For information, call (585) 473-7720.
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