OAKLAND, Calif. - A striking oil painting by renowned naturalist painter Eric Sloane was the highlight of Clars Auction Gallery's Oct. 10-11 auction, selling for $11,850 (all prices quoted inclusive of 18.5% buyer's premium). Ducks Flying over the Marshland is an excellent example of the dramatic, solitary landscapes for which Sloane (American, 1905-1985) is famous.

California art, always a strong seller at Clars, fared quite well in this sale. A vivid, abstract oil on canvas by Richard Thorpe McLean (b. 1934) measuring 73 inches by 67 inches drew considerable attention, ultimately selling for $8,295, well above its pre-auction estimate of $3,000-$5,000. A coastal landscape by noted California Impressionist Joseph Kleitsch (1882-1931) fetched $6,518.

The Sloane and other American artworks set the stage for a number of other highlights that met with success in the two-day sale. A diamond choker necklace mounted in platinum and set with diamonds weighing 11.36 carats realized $10,665. Another stunning diamond piece, a diamond-covered Omega wristwatch set with 13 carats of diamonds, dazzled as it rose to a final selling price of $8,295. A lady's President Rolex in 18K yellow gold sold for $6,518.

Next, Clars prepares for its Nov. 7-8 estate auction. For consignment and other information, please visit www.clars.com or call 888-339-7600. As always, LiveAuctioneers.com will provide the Internet live bidding and host the online catalog for this sale.

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