Rare Sculptures Of Celtic Legend To Headline Sporting Auction

Three remarkable sculptures by renowned sculptor Benno Schotz, including two rare pieces depicting Celtic legend John Thomson, will go under the hammer at our Glasgow galleries, Friday, 13^th December.   

One of the sale highlights is Schotz’s ‘The Prince of Goalkeepers (John Thomson of Celtic F.C.)’, with two versions of the sculpture, both circa 1968, capturing the spirit of one of Celtic’s most revered players. 

Crafted in bronzed resin and bronzed plaster, the pieces reflect the famed Estonian born sculptor’s appreciation of the Club’s iconic goalkeeper from the 1920s. A bronze version of this sculpture is held in the collection of Celtic F.C., highlighting its importance within the club’s history.

The bronzed resin version is estimated to fetch between £3,000 and £4,000 while the plaster sculpture is valued at £500 to £700.

Schotz’s third featured work, ‘The Goalkeeper’ (1973), a bronzed plaster sculpture, combines dynamic artistry with profound storytelling. The piece, which could fetch £1,500, has an impressive exhibition history, including displays at the Royal Scottish Academy and the Royal Glasgow Institute of Fine Arts.

Over 200 lots will go under the hammer in McTear’s Glory | the Sporting Auction, with impressive collections of Celtic and Rangers memorabilia including early shirts, medals, rare tickets, and programmes, in addition to a number of artefacts celebrating the Scottish international team.

Another important lot in the auction is a rare George Best Faberge egg.  The sterling silver and gold enamelled egg was created by Sarah Faberge, the great granddaughter of Russian Imperial Jeweller Carl Faberge, and is No 2 in a limited edition of 68 that were created in support of the George Best Foundation.  The egg has been valued at £7,000 to £9,000

McTear’s Glory | The Sporting Auction will take place on Friday 13^th December at 10am.

For a complimentary, no-obligation valuation, visit our Glasgow Galleries or contact a specialist on 0141 810 2880 or auction@mctears.co.uk.