07/09/2026 Silver, General, General Furniture & Decorative Arts
Entertaining is back—with a fresh sense of style. Today’s hosts are embracing objects that tell a story, bringing pieces once reserved for special occasions into the rhythm of everyday life. Here is a selection from the Entertaining with Style auction to inspire memorable gatherings with personality and imagination.
With its hand-sculpted leaves and vibrant green glaze, Dodie Thayer lettuce ware is a defining symbol of Palm Beach style—an effortless blend of elegance, charm and whimsy. Beloved by such tastemakers as Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, C.Z. Guest and Bunny Mellon, it brings timeless Palm Beach glamour to any setting. This extensive collection is consigned by the Estate of Lois Wideman of Palm Beach.
The renewed enthusiasm for silver reflects a broader return to the rituals of entertaining. Take inspiration from the 7th Duchess of Bedford (widely credited with popularizing afternoon tea) and host this newly revived tradition at home with an elegant Tiffany & Co. sterling silver tea and coffee service. Tiffany's iconic 'English King' flatware pattern has graced sophisticated dining tables since its introduction in 1885 during the height of the Gilded Age, while Gorham’s 'Spanish Tracery' flatware pattern, introduced in 1970, offers a vintage Modernist sensibility.
Since European production began in the early 18th century, porcelain has served as an expression of personal style. The Haviland Limoges 'Océane' pattern captures the relaxed spirit of summertime entertaining with its colorful marine-themed decoration, while the Haviland Limoges 'Vieux Paris Vert' pattern draws inspiration from the refined designs of 18th century Sèvres. A Minton Aesthetic Movement 'Aquarium' service, circa 1875, transforms the table into an underwater tableau, with bold, naturalistic scenes depicting fish and aquatic life.
The finest glassware does more than serve a purpose; it adorns the table like jewels treasured for their brilliance and artistry. Elizabeth Garouste and Mattia Bonetti’s glassware for Daum reflects a fresh, contemporary sensibility with sculptural forms inspired by branching coral. Designed by Modernist Boris Tabacoff and produced from 1970-1978, Baccarat’s 'Pavot' pattern features a distinctive goutte (drop) stem that transforms each glass into luminous sculpture. A Venetian blown and gilt-decorated glass service shimmers with the theatrical opulence of La Serenissima.
The most memorable gatherings are often defined by the carefully chosen accessories that spark conversation. Equestrian-themed Hermès bottle coasters lend every bottle a touch of sporting elegance, while Asprey’s charming Bull and Bear bottle stoppers crown your liquid assets with wit and character—perfectly suited for celebrating both winning streaks and market triumphs. A Christian Lacroix for Christofle carving knife and fork set brings the spirit of haute couture from the runway to the table.
The offerings in Entertaining with Style reveal that the most compelling pieces are those that carry both history and personality. More than decorative treasures, these objects bring a sense of occasion to modern entertaining while reflecting the distinctive style of the host. Each offers an opportunity to create new traditions, express your personal taste, and shape the gatherings that will be remembered for years to come.
Auction Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 10am
Exhibition July 10, 13, 14