A c1900 image of the nun’s parlour at Loreto Convent, Fermoy, Co. Cork. (Click on image to enlarge).
A c1900 photograph of the interior of Loreto Convent, Fermoy, Co. Cork shows antiques pieces to be auctioned there on August 18. The Lynes and Lynes no reserves auction of around 400 lots features a number of items seen in this unique photograph. The large painting on the back wall is of the crucifixion, the harp by Sebastian Erard on the left is lot 104, the mid 19th century chair to the left centre is lot 60, the table at the centre back is lot 67. The Victorian pole screens at the back and one of the foot stools to the front will also feature.
The sale includes a 9′ long Victorian sideboard originally from Castlemartyr, Co. Cork, a longcase clock by Patrick Donegan of Dublin and two harps. There is good Irish and English silverware and a collection of 19th century Bohemian glass, as well as contents from two kitchens, garden furniture and effects. The catalogue for the sale, on the premises at Fermoy, is on-line.
The Loreto sisters have been teaching in Fermoy since the mid 19th century. The remaining sisters have moved to houses in the community.
UPDATE: The oil painting sold for 4,400, the sideboard made 3,200, the longcase clock was the top lot in the sale and sold for 6,300, the harp made 4,500, the mid 19th century chair made 380 and the table featured in the photograph made 880. Silver and glass sold very well.