Victorian Bathtub & Tibetan Thangka Auction – Rare Art & Antiques
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Irish Auction Highlights: victorian Bathtub, Rare Thangka, and Automobilia
Table of Contents
Auction Overview: Foley’s and Adam’s Sales
Two significant auctions are scheduled in Ireland in November 2024. Aidan Foley’s three-day sale in Doneraile, County Cork, will run from November 3rd to November 5th, starting at 6:00 PM each evening. Simultaneously, James Adam will host a fine Asian art auction in Dublin on November 12th.
Aidan Foley’s Auction: Victorian Charm and Collectibles
aidan Foley’s auction, currently on view, features a diverse collection of items. A standout piece is an antique Victorian copper bathtub,originating from a period house in Mitchelstown. Complete with a conventional jug warmer, it is estimated to sell for around €1,000.
The auction also boasts an outstanding collection of automobilia and pub memorabilia. A notable item is a double-sided Texaco forecourt sign from the 1960s, highly sought after by collectors. Additional offerings include antique furniture, rugs, silver, and jewelry.
James Adam’s Auction: Rare Tibetan Thangka Leads Asian Art Sale

James Adam will present over 400 lots of fine Asian art on November 12th in Dublin. The auction is headlined by a rare 19th-century Tibetan thangka, a Buddhist temple painting.
The thangka depicts Padmapani, a four-armed deity representing compassion in Buddhism, painted on silk. Experts believe it was likely created for display in a large and significant monastery. The estimated value of this piece ranges from €60,000 to €80,000.
Understanding Thangkas and Their Significance
Thangkas are not merely paintings; they are deeply revered religious objects in Tibetan Buddhism. They serve as visual aids for meditation and are believed to embody the deity depicted. The intricate details and symbolism within a thangka are carefully constructed according to strict iconographic guidelines. The materials used - silk, pigments derived from natural sources, and gold – contribute to the thangka’s sacredness and value. The size and complexity of a thangka frequently enough reflect the importance of the deity and the resources available to commission its creation.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Deity Depicted | Padmapani (Avalokiteśvara), the bodhisattva of compassion. |
| Material | Silk, natural pigments, gold. |
| Estimated Value | €60,000 – €80,000 |
| Origin | 19th-century Tibet |
