American Flag Recovered From 9/11 and Louis XV-Style Cylinder Desk Come to Sale with Austin Auction Gallery

In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack, a first responder recovered an American flag from the rubble near the World Trade Center complex. Bearing witness to the devastation, the flag has holes and tears and retains gray matter from the debris plume. It was signed by numerous responders working on cleaning up the site. That flag is a key highlight of this upcoming auction, offered by Austin Auction Gallery. Measuring around 44 inches high by 73.25 inches wide, the flag also includes the name of its finder. Near the center is the signature of then-New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani.  

Two tea and coffee service sets also lead the listings. One is an eight-piece Portuguese silver set, whereas the other is a fine Japanese Konoike silver dragon and irises five-piece set. Another noteworthy antique item in the catalog is an ornate Louis XV style ormolu-mounted cylinder desk. It is decorated with figural and foliate bronze and polychrome marquetry. The interior is fitted with seven parquetry-faced drawers and a writing surface. To view the complete catalog and register to bid in the upcoming Day 3-Fabulous February 2024 Antiques & Estates Auction, visit Bidsquare and browse other online auctions.