“There was a piece against the wall on the right side, I'll never forget it, and I looked at it [and said], 'That's an important piece, Frank [Horton].'" – Brad Rauschenberg, Author and Historian

Spend a moment with Leland Little as he sits down with author and historian, Brad Rauschenberg, to discuss Brad's lifelong passion for Southern furniture and decorative arts. In their conversation, Brad reflects on the moment when his fascination with Southern furniture was sparked, his years of traveling around the country, searching for Southern furniture, and the photography, note taking, and hands on research that ultimately culminated in an exceedingly thorough and respected three volume book series.

During the course of their conversation, Brad discusses an important piece of Charleston furniture, the Limestone University Charleston Inlaid Mahogany Serpentine Secretary with Bookcase. In particular he shares the excitement he felt when he first saw this piece forty-five years ago and his joy when he saw it again in our gallery. This important piece of Charleston furniture achieved an impressive $336,000, including buyer's premium, at our September 2025 Decorative Art Auction.

In Brad's words, "Things are always going to be found, always discovered in homes." Feel the spirit of discovery and explore the extraordinary works being offered our upcoming Decorative Art Auction. This auction opens for live-online bidding on Friday, December 12 at 10:00 am. Pre-bidding is available now.

Decorative Art Auction
December 12 at 10:00 am ET