Canadiana, Folk Art & Grenfell Rugs From The Miller Carmichael Collection Achieve Strong Results

273-lot online auction sees 100% sell-through and competitive bidding across Canadiana, textiles, and decoys

NEW HAMBURG, ONTARIO, CANADA, April 1, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- A rare 18th century Quebec diamond point armoire led the sale at CA$25,410; an early Orel Leboeuf whistler hen decoy soared to CA$22,990; and a selection of scarce Grenfell mats and textiles delivered strong prices throughout Canadiana, Folk Art, Fine Art & Historic Objects – The Late Miller Carmichael Collection, a 273-lot online-only auction held March 28 by Miller & Miller Auctions.

All prices quoted are in Canadian dollars and include the buyer’s premium.

Conducted as an online-only sale with a live video feed, the auction attracted 535 registered bidders who placed 7,749 bids through Miller & Miller Live and LiveAuctioneers. The sale achieved a 100% sell-through rate, with 74% of the top 50 lots exceeding estimate, and realized a total gross of CA$438,110.75. Categories included Canadiana, decoys, textiles, folk art, and fine art, with lots closing sequentially throughout the day.

“I’ve said it a few times as we led up to the sale, felt the energy the day of the sale and the results simply reinforced—this sale was fun,” said Ben Lennox, Head of Sales. “Miller Carmichael had the eye. It was evident in the Canadian painted furniture that adorned his house, and with the Canadian art he collected. Whether historical, folk, or contemporary, he honed in on scenes filled with whimsy or a strong Canadian sense about them. The results for both furniture and art were strong across the board.”

The top lot of the sale, Lot 167, an 18th century Quebec diamond point pine armoire, achieved CA$25,410 against a CA$12,000–CA$18,000 estimate. Retaining traces of original red paint, its sculpted panels, original hardware, and exceptional condition made it a standout example of early Quebec craftsmanship, drawing strong competition from collectors.

Decoy collectors were equally active, led by Lot 133, an early 20th century Orel Leboeuf whistler hen low head decoy from St. Anicet, Quebec, which realized CA$22,990. With strong original paint, early carving characteristics, and evidence of field use, the decoy far exceeded its CA$1,000–CA$1,500 estimate. “Duck decoy collectors had a number of significant pieces to choose from, and two flew well beyond our initial estimates,” Lennox noted. “Rare forms by desired carvers again brought veteran collectors out to battle.”

Textiles proved a defining category of the sale, with five Grenfell rugs ranking among the top 15 lots. Leading the group was Lot 87, an early Grenfell “Meadow Mat” from the 1920s, which brought CA$10,890. Notable for its intricate lattice of indigenous flora and exhibition history, the mat reflected strong demand for rare and documented examples.

Additional Grenfell highlights included Lot 98, the “Vertical Bear” mat, achieving CA$10,285, and Lot 83, “Dog Team With Shadows,” designed by Stephen Hamilton in 1942, which realized CA$8,470. “There was spirited bidding across North America with multiple phone bids for numerous lots,” Lennox added. “Some of the examples were incredibly scarce and certainly drew the attention of seasoned collectors.”

Furniture continued to perform well across the board. Lot 76, a small early 19th century Quebec pine armoire in original blue paint, realized CA$10,285, more than doubling its high estimate. Its naive construction, original surface, and charming proportions made it especially appealing to collectors of regional Canadian furniture.

Folk art and textiles with strong provenance also generated competitive bidding. Lot 185, a large and early Quebec hooked rug depicting a lady on horseback, achieved CA$9,075. With its bold folky design and exhibition history from the Harriet Hawkins collection, the rug attracted considerable attention.

Fine folk art paintings rounded out the highlights, with Lot 179, a detailed fishing scene by Nova Scotia artist Cyril Hirtle, realizing CA$8,470. The work’s strong colour and maritime subject matter contributed to its appeal among collectors.

“We always find a well-curated, exclusive collection creates excitement—the excitement was there in spades,” Lennox added. “Collectors recognized the quality and authenticity throughout the Carmichael collection, and the results reflected that confidence.”

A wrap-up video highlighting select results from the auction can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/QGKMbD4REYM

Miller & Miller Auctions’ upcoming sales include:
April 9, 2026 – Luxury Watches
May 31, 2026 – Pre-1980 Sports Cards & Memorabilia
June 11, 2026 – Post-War Folk Art
June 13, 2026 – Petroliana & Advertising

Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. is Canada’s trusted seller of high-value collections and is always accepting quality consignments. The firm specializes in art, antiques, watches, and high-value collectibles. To consign a single piece, an estate, or an entire collection, contact (519) 573-3710 or visit www.MillerandMillerAuctions.com.

Ben Lennox
Miller and Miller Auctions Ltd.
ben@millerandmillerauctions.com

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