On Saturday, Oct. 1 at noon, Royka’s Auctioneers & Appraisers will conduct an auction next to the gallery at 21 Main Street, Lunenburg, featuring over 100 late 19th century theatre posters that were found in a client’s attic. “An incredible find was made by our client. The consignor found a large group of rolled up posters in the attic. While researching them they discovered most were for performances at the Worcester Theatre in Worcester. It was like unrolling a time capsule of American history” says Paul Royka, owner of Royka’s Auctioneers & Appraisers. Some of these posters may be worth as much as $10,000 each.

The posters cover a range of theatrical performances dating from the end of the Civil War to just prior to the dawn of cinema and consist of iconic performers and performances such as Buffalo Bill, Evil Spirit Dr. W.F. Carver, Frank Mayo in Davy Crockett, Civil War plays, minstrels, Gilbert and Sullivan operas, burlesque shows, magic and circus shows. One poster for a Mark Twain play may be the only one in existence, since there were only 35 performances of the play. The first 27 lots will consist of rare Western posters including over 10 from Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show and other famous plays and actors such as Frank Chanfrau in “The Arkansas Traveler” and Annie Pixley. Over 100 lots of posters will be offered as Part I of Royka’s Fine Art & Antique Auction. Part II will consist of Americana featuring a tall Chippendale chest of draws, folk art includes a fine pair of Indian andirons with original painted surface, art pottery featuring a large Marblehead vase decorated with wisteria, a large doll collection and more. The auction will take place at 21 Main Street, Lunenburg (Andrew’s Hall next to the gallery). Preview will be Saturday, Oct. 1, 10 a.m. to noon. Auction starts at noon.

For more information call (978) 582-8207 or to see all the posters online visit www.roykas.com

Posted: 09|29|05 at 9:14 am. Filed under: US News.