Lemon Hill, one of the most iconic historic mansions in Fairmount Park, is doing some very early spring cleaning. On November 16, it will auction off hundreds of its furnishings and decor, many of which date back to the 18th century and originate from Philadelphia.
Colonial Dames of America, Chapter II, has managed and maintained the historic mansion designed by Henry Platt since 1957. Funds raised from Lemon Hill Collection of the Freeman’s auction, American Furniture Folk & Decorative Arts, will go to the Colonial Dames’ scholarship fund, which supports secondary education.
There are an impressive 91 lots in the Lemon Hill Collection that will be part of the Nov. 16 auction, which begins at 10 a.m. at 1808 Chestnut Street. Here are just 8 of the stunning pieces you’ll be able to bid on, including Federal and Classical antiques, plus prints with ties to William Penn.
Pair of Classical grain-painted recamiers
These recaimers date back to around 1815 and are thought to be originally owned by a Spanish minister in Philadelphia. It’s estimated that they’re worth $3,000-$5,000.
Land Grant signed by William Penn
This archivally framed piece of parchment is a land grant signed by none other than William Penn for his friend Henry Gouldney in 1695. It’s estimated at $1,000-$2,000.
Federal inlaid mahogany pianoforte
According to the inscription on the pianoforte, this musical instrument was built by John Geib, Jr. in New York sometime around 1818. Geib’s craftsmanship is also featured in the Met. The estimation of this piece is $2,000-$3,000.
Federal mahogany sofa
This stunning sofa with pegged legs dates back to 1815 in Philadelphia. It’s about 75 inches long and is estimated to cost $2,000-$4,000.
Hand-painted map of Lemon Hill
One of the more affordable pieces on this list is this 20th-century oil-painted map of Lemon Hill. It’s estimate is $200-$300.
Chinese export porcelain collection
One of the showstoppers of the auction lots is this collection of Chinese export porcelain, which is estimated around $15,000-$25,000. The extensive collection of plates, cups, and saucers dates back to 1810.
Portico mantel clock
The dial of this 19th-century clock reads “Gaston Jolly Fils A. Paris.” It’s made of gilt metal and estimated at $600-$800.
Windsor chairs
This pair of bamboo Windsor chairs date back to the late 1700s and were designed by Joseph Henzey of Philadelphia, according to the inscriptions. Their estimated around $1,000-$2,000.
- American Furniture Folk & Decorative Arts [Freeman’s]
- 15 historic mansions of Fairmount Park’s past [Curbed Philly]