There are few things in life more gratifying than a bargain. What else can make us feel this way—so virtuous (think of the savings!), yet so naughty (what a steal!), all at once? This weekend, there are a couple of upscale sales that are worthy of the attention of even the most discerning shopper. Are they giving the stuff away? Of course not, why would they? But if you accept the premise that a real bargain is something that would be worth owning at any price, then when the opportunity arises to acquire it for less, that constitutes a bargain bonanza. Privet House, June 6 & 7; 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
On Saturday and Sunday, Privet House, which is co-owned by Richard Lambertson, of Lambertson Truex handbag fame (this store is his weekend hobby), is hosting a backyard sale that features the sort of stuff you'd long for, regardless of price. Much of it comes from his own "mini-department store" and from co-owner Suzanne Cassano 's Volume 1 Antiques next door, but there are also other equally impeccable resources contributing to the bounty, including antiques dealers and interior designers. Privet House4 Cornwall Road, Warren, CT; 860.868.1800 June 6 and 7, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Cash or check only. Stair Galleries, June 5; 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Lot #222: Robert de Niro, Sr. (American, 1922-1993): Estimate: $500 - $700 Auctions inherently have bargain potential—leave a bid and see what happens, you might get it for well below what you are willing to pay. This Friday, Stair Galleries in Hudson is holding an Exposition Sale (no telephone bidding, but pre-sale absentee bids are accepted) of 20th-century art and furnishings, including property from the collections
Lot #343: Arts and Crafts Sterling Silver Tray, Lebolt & Co. Estimate: $700 - $800 of the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum, the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Gallery, and the Art Institute of Chicago, as well as from the Collection of Naomi Leff (the interior designer who helped Ralph Lauren turn the Rhinelander Mansion at 72nd and Madison into a store). Paintings, many with estimates as low as $50 will be auctioned in the morning. Later, in the evening, the furniture and decorative arts go on the block. Stair Galleries549 Warren St Hudson, NY; 518.751.1000 Paintings, 11 a.m. Furniture and decorative arts, 6 p.m.
