Eye opening estimate price for piece of Castlebellingham hospitality history

An iconic piece of pub advertising history from Castlebellingham in County Louth, in the form of a monumental late-19th-century advertising mirror, produced in 1872 by noted maker William W. Cleland and commissioned to promote Castle Bellingham Ales & Stouts, is set to go for auction, with an eye opening estimate price, at Victor Mee Auctions as part of their ‘Wilson’s Yard Sale’, which will take place online on 18 & 19 March.

Measuring an extraordinary eight feet wide by four feet high, it ranks among the largest known examples of Cleland’s work and has miraculously survived a rich life adorning one of Armagh’s oldest licensed premises, Portadown’s West End Bar.

Embellished with period lettering and decorative flourishes, the mirror is both a striking work of Victorian craftsmanship and a nod to Ireland’s brewing history and is suited as a statement back-bar focal point, reception feature, or signature wall installation within a hospitality setting.

The scale and craftsmanship of this mirror offer dramatic and visual impact, whilst reinforcing authentic heritage credentials. As a one-of-a-kind piece, estimated to sell for upwards of €50,000, this mirror offers collectors and hospitality venues an opportunity to acquire a centrepiece that embodies the enduring character of the Irish public house tradition.

In a time where atmosphere defines guest experience, few pieces can rival the combined scale, provenance, and branding potential of this remarkable mirror.

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These lots feature in Victor Mee Auction’s upcoming ‘Wilson’s Yard’ sale which will take place online from 2pm on Wednesday 18 and Thursday 19 March.

Also being sold at the auction, is a stunning example of public house heritage as the complete bar counter and back fitting from one of Armagh’s oldest licensed premises, Portadown’s West End Bar, will go to the highest bidder.

Offered with its original snug and crafted in richly toned hardwood, the installation is anchored by a remarkable back bar which incorporates six fully functioning liquor casks, an increasingly scarce survivor of traditional Irish public house design. This fully realised hospitality setting offers immediate character and authenticity to the likes of boutique hotels, destinations restaurants, whiskey bars, or private members’ clubs and is estimated to bring up to €80,000 at auction.

In addition to these iconic lots, bidders will also have the chance to bid on remaining inventory from one of Ireland’s most established names in architectural salvage and reclaimed materials Wilson’s Yard as owns Geoff and Rosy Wilson gear up for retirement.

The sale will feature an extensive and eclectic selection of architectural antiques, reclaimed building materials, fireplaces, decorative interiors and outdoor features. In-person viewings will take place 13th – 16th March at Wilson’s Yard, 123 Hillsborough Road, Dromore, County Down.

For more information and to view the full sale catalogue visit www.victormeeauctions.ie