This upcoming estate auction is anchored by two primary collecting categories: Furniture and Ceramics. Together, these areas reflect a well-appointed interior with an emphasis on traditional craftsmanship and domestic utility.

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Bid online now through Thursday, June 5th at alderferauction.com. This auction will begin closing at 8:00 PM at a rate of 5 lots per minute.

In this Wayne estate auction, Alderfer's is selling items from the collection of Dr. William L., Jr. and Lorraine Hanaway out of their home of over 50 years. A distinguished scholar of ancient Persian language, literature, and culture, Dr. Hanaway was a longtime professor at the University of Pennsylvania. During Bill’s career, they lived at various times in Iran, England and Italy. In addition, Bill traveled extensively in Iran, Afghanistan and around the Middle East.   Bill and Lorraine shared a love of New York City, and of books, walking, opera, world travel, and the outdoors. 

This upcoming estate auction is anchored by two primary collecting categories: Furniture and Ceramics. Together, these areas reflect a well-appointed interior with an emphasis on traditional craftsmanship and domestic utility.

Furniture features prominently, showcasing a range of carved wood pieces and early-to-mid 20th century designs. Notable highlights include a wood credenza with three paneled doors adorned with floral medallions and supported on claw-style feet. A pair of OneidaCraft, Inc. tilt-top pie crust tables demonstrates fine craftsmanship with scalloped tops and tripod bases, both marked by the manufacturer. Also included is a marble top cabinet fitted with a beveled white marble surface, brass hardware pulls, and interior shelving—blending decorative appeal with function.

Ceramics also makes a strong showing with Japanese, English, and mixed-origin porcelain and ceramic wares. A Japanese tea set decorated with floral motifs includes teacups, saucers, a teapot, and serving pieces, several of which are marked on the base. A Johnson Bros England dinnerware set offers coordinated plates, bowls, and teacups. Additionally, a mixed collection of Asian and English ceramics includes blue-and-white lidded mugs, floral teapots, and various bowls and serving dishes—each reflecting the diversity of 20th-century tableware traditions.

Beyond these principal categories, the auction includes a wide selection of additional estate contents. Decorative objects such as a gilded framed wall mirror with floral molding, and a carved wooden armchair with rope-twist legs and red upholstery, provide visual interest and period style. Among the memorabilia offerings is a framed Metropolitan Opera display featuring a 1940 Die Walkure playbill, a signed card from Kirsten Flagstad, and a black-and-white photo of the soprano in costume.

The overall sale reflects a household shaped by a blend of traditional design, global ceramic traditions, and cultural artifacts. Whether utilitarian or decorative, the items offered demonstrate a cohesive aesthetic with connections to domestic, artistic, and historical themes. 

Preview: Online Only

Pick Up Day By Appointment Only:

·         Tuesday June 10th from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Successful bidders will receive the full pick up address with their invoice and instructions on how to schedule a pick up appointment.

NOTE: If you are unable to make the scheduled pick-up days and would like to inquire about our transport service, please call 215-393-3000 or email transport@alderferauction.com prior to the auction close.
For an additional fee, Alderfer Auction may be able to transport your items back to the auction center in Hatfield, PA for you to pick-up within 5 business days. Additional fees will be applied to your invoice for this service. Some items may not qualify for our transport services.