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By Meredith Traina for wpix.com
NEW YORK (WPIX) – Crazy dog lovers are unleashing their cash, and lots of it.
Dog lovers, art aficionados and their canine companions gathered in Midtown Manhattan Sunday to view a rare collection of dog memorabilia. The items will be auctioned off for Bonhams 28th annual dog art sale February 16.
The event includes more than 200 pieces of unique artwork dedicated to man’s best friend, with some items expected to sell for $500,000 to $700,000. Dog artists John Emms, Gustav Muss-Arnolt, Frank Paton and Maud Earl all contributed to the collection, as well Lucy Dawson who has put up close to 50 sketches.
Among the most gawked at possessions is a 19th century, leather and brass collar worn by Charles Dickens’ dog. The leather and brass collar is inscribed with Dickens’ name and carries an estimate of $4,000 to $6,000. Like many Victorians, the classic author was especially fond of dogs.
A toothpick belonging to the author went for $9,150 when it was auctioned off last December.
At the preview Sunday, a doggie brunch known as “Barkfest” will allow dogs to view the collection with their owners.
UPDATE BEGINS HERE
NEW YORK — A dog collar that belonged to Charles Dickens has fetched $11,590 at a New York City auction.
The leather and brass collar is inscribed with Dickens’ name. It had been estimated to sell at $4,000 to $6,000. The buyer’s name was not immediately disclosed.
The collar was auctioned Tuesday at Bonhams New York’s sale of dog art.
Like many Victorians, the author of “David Copperfield” and “A Tale of Two Cities” was fond of dogs.
Last year, an ivory and gold toothpick that belonged to Dickens sold for $9,150 at auction.
