An attractive, almost square Donegal carpet on a blue ground is among the top lots at Sheppards two day auction next ON January 31/February 1. Measuring more than twelve feet on each side it is enclosed by a leaf scroll border. Lot 654 is estimated at €3,000-€5,000. Antique Donegal carpets from the factory established by Scottish textile maker Andrew Morton in Killybegs in 1898, are prized by collectors. The first Donegal carpet with a Celtic design was made for the Department of Agriculture and Technical Instruction for their offices at the Cork Exhibition in 1902. The sale of 642 lots – the entire contents of Eden Hall, Kilkenny and other clients – goes on view in Durrow today and the catalogue is online.
The most expensively estimated lot is a set of ten Regency mahogany dining chairs with a panelled Greek key scroll crest. The estimate is €4,000-€6,000.The sale offers an impressive selection of antique furniture, art, Oriental and European porcelain, silver, plate and collectibles. Estimates are from €50-€80 up.