Chef's stuff for sale - 2 days only

Most of Fritz Blank's extraordinary personal collection of 15,000 culinary books already has been boxed up and carted off to its final reward - the University of Pennsylvania's Rare Book and Manuscript Library.

But for two days later this month, the public will get a chance to pick over a lifetime of Blank's other memorabilia and collectibles. They will range from pieces of French copperware, to scores of ceramic (and stuffed and papier-mâché) cows, and pig figurines of every sort.

Some of the more valuable items will head off to New York auction houses, said attorney Pat Arcaro, who is handling the sale. But she said there will be restaurant matchbook collections and rare liqueur bottles, framed vintage food and cigarette ads, ceramic whiteware, gravy boats, soup tureens, crystal, and antique furniture.

The sale is May 26 and 27 at Deux Cheminees, 1221 Locust, entry at the side door on Camac Street. For details, write to salecheffritz@aol.com or call 610-558-0467. - Rick Nichols