Setting a theme for this month’s decorative arts auction, illustrated and sculpted birds provide a decorative motif tying together several of the many desirable and picturesque items on offer.

An arresting baluster pair of Japanese vases from the Meiji period of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, illustrated in subtle tertiary colours with morning glory and decorative birds complements a wonderful Worcester lion’s foot reticulated urn produced by the celebrated English artist James Stinton. Strikingly populated by Aberdeen Finches, this handsome object features a blush ivory porcelain lattice collar and lid, and is fine example of this well-known artist’s oeuvre.

On a sunny winter Sunday afternoon a full house of eager purchasers kept warm, and enjoyed the atmosphere at Philips Auctions for a bumper sale that had something for everyone, and an impressive clearance rate of 90%. Fine French furniture sold well above estimate, and the third instalment of the Patrick Street collection provided a feast of fine silver, providing much interest for members of the Silver Society. As part of a large estate, a wide range of prints originating from Spencer Scott Sandilands, including some fine examples of first subscriber series Gould prints which were keenly awaited and sold well.

A great variety of fine silverware is on offer at the July Auction, ranging from sterling silver George III and William IV tea and coffee services, candlesticks, sugar tongs, napkin rings, and a large sterling silver presentation tankard. With over 180 lots to change hands, this collection offers opportunities for all tastes and budgets.

From diamonds to dice, the August jewellery auction features an exciting range of highly desirable watches. Presenting twenty-eight brilliant cut diamonds, a circa 1970’s Omega ladies gold watch sets the bar for stunning and dazzling timekeeping. With 18ct yellow and white gold fashioned in a cushion shaped case, this prestigious De Ville features a deep grey coloured dial, two hands, gold baton markers, and is authentically fitted to an original integrated mesh style bracelet with fold over clasp.

For those seeking a limited edition collectable, the unique Corum Casino bubble watch will attract great interest. Fashioned in the style of a roulette wheel with dice markers, this watch was actually won in a card game and has never been worn. It features an automatic movement in an oversized stainless steel case, domed glass, and is fitted to an original black leather strap with deployment clasp.

As part of a high profile and prestigious private Melbourne collection, a Chinese coramandel screen will take centre stage at the forthcoming Philips Auctions sales event in July. This majestic eight leaf double-sided screen from the Qing Dynasty portrays red crested cranes, phoenix, and water fowl within a lotus and bamboo water garden. This wonderful example of an iconic late 19th century art form is illustrated with muted colours on gold leaf, with the reverse decorated on black carved lacquer ground with a cracked ice border.