Vintage piece of Irish erotica to go under the hammer

“I think the carved ivory penis will also be sought after,” said auctioneer Damien Matthews ahead of a two-day sale this weekend.

Matthews of Oldcastle are hosting what will an exciting event for anyone with who is on the market for premium quality antiques and collectables.

An incredible array of antiques and curious will be on offer as Matthews Auction Rooms hold their first two-day auction on Saturday and Sunday, starting from 2pm each day.

Mr Matthews described the sale days as an opportunity to pick up unique items: “Usually we just hold one-day auctions but for this one we had so many good things come in the door it just wasn’t possible.

“All of the antiques are from good country houses. There is a wide selection of collectables, including many items that don’t normally come to market. This is an exceptional lot,” Mr Matthews said.

Viewing of the items commences today, Thursday, continues on Friday and throughout the auction.

More than 1,000 lots have been entered from the four corners of Ireland, including some very good house clearances.

“It’s certainly an interesting and wide-ranging sale with lots from 300 years old to the present day,” says the auctioneer.

“There is a brass diver’s helmet that is sure to attract interest.

“I think the carved ivory penis will also be sought after.

“It is very well carved and has a compartment to keep a lock of hair. It was a ‘forget me not’ or keepsake that was presented to a wife while the husband was away at war.

“This is quite an unusual item, it is in a leather box with a scarlet silk inlay. It is only guided at €500-€800.”

The auction estimates range from €20 to €3,000, so there is something to appeal across all tastes and budgets, including a good selection of garden statuary.

More information, and a fully illustrated catalogue, can be viewed on the auctioneer’s website at matthewsauctionrooms.com.