Articles From The Experts

In this episode, contemporary art specialist Jonathan Horwich looks at the remarkable story of Leonard Lauder, a name you might not recognise, but whose art collection recently went through sale at Sotheby’s and made headlines around the globe. Discover how a family business, Estée Lauder, fuelled a passion for art that culminated in this extraordinary sale. Shattering previous records and becomin...

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watches specialist Liz Bailey looks at a truly remarkable story – one of a Patek Philippe wristwatch so rare, it sparked a bidding war and ignited a global debate amongst collectors. Liz looks at the fascinating history of the ref. 1518, a watch so sought-after that it fetched record-breaking prices at auction, exceeding CHF 14 million! But this isn’t just...

In this episode, written by silver & whiskey specialist Colin Fraser, we take another look at the Whiskey market… and things have been… interesting. We explore fluctuating prices, new releases, and a dramatic shift in how whisky is bought and sold. Has the market corrected itself, or are we seeing something more significant at play? Join us as we explore the current climate, what it means for...

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watches specialist Liz Bailey looks at a remarkable discovery that’s captured the nation’s attention: the Tudor Heart. Unearthed by a metal detectorist in a Warwickshire field, this exquisite, 16th-century jewel is believed to have been a personal gift from Henry VIII to his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. Hear the story behind this incredible find and lea...

In this episode, our specialists recommend some must-see exhibitions, including a fascinating look into the mind of an innovative film director, a retrospective of a significant artist’s work, and a celebration of a vibrant design movement. Discover rarely seen masterpieces and explore captivating narratives through art, jewellery, and material culture. We also touch on a national campaign to acqu...

In this episode, Asian art specialist Ashley Innes looks at the key trends and notable Asian art pieces showcased at this year's Frieze Masters and Frieze London fairs. She explores the evolving landscape of the Asian art market, examining the influences of post-pandemic shifts, burgeoning interest in non-Western art forms, and the surprising impact of artificial intelligence. Ashley highlights st...

In this episode, senior valuer & collectibles specialist Stephanie Connell looks at the fascinating world of horror movie memorabilia. Discover how a seemingly ordinary movie poster can be worth tens of thousands of pounds and the stories behind their incredible value. Stephanie explores the artistry of actors like Lon Chaney and the surprising costs associated with insuring these prized posse...

In this episode, Old Master specialist David Dallas looks at the life and art of Gwen John, a fascinating and often overlooked figure in early 20th-century art. Hear her story of intense relationships, artistic exploration, and a quiet rebellion against the spotlight. She moved in the same circles as Picasso and Matisse, yet forged her own unique path, creating a body of work that is only now rece...

In this episode, written by jewellery specialist Aurélia Turrall, we look at an interesting shift in the world of diamonds. What happens when the lines between natural and lab-grown become blurred? We’re look at the political debate, the industry backlash, and a surprising loss of value – one so significant, it’s being compared to a game of chance. Discover why some are fighting to protect a legac...

In this episode, senior valuer & wristwatch specialist Alastair Meiklejon looks at sports memorabilia, and the staggering sums some items command. From Michael Jordan jerseys fetching over $10 million and a trading card selling for an unbelievable $12.9 million, to rugby shirts fetching over a quarter of a million pounds. But what drives these prices? And are there new career-defining sporting...

In this episode, Asian art specialist Ashley Innes looks at the highlights from Bonhams recent Downton Abbey memorabilia auction. Discover which iconic costumes fetched jaw-dropping prices and why some characters' outfits resonated more with bidders. Learn about the enduring legacy of the show and the treasures that continue to captivate fans. With shows like Downton Abbey, Game of Thrones, and St...

In this episode, silver specialist Jenny Knott looks at Goldsmiths' Hall, a place where centuries of tradition meet modern creativity. Discover how a humble exhibition called "Loot" evolved into the prestigious Goldsmiths' Fair, bringing together established and emerging talent in jewellery and silversmithing. Learn about the hall’s role in fostering iconic British designers and how visiting can o...

In this episode, jewellery, watch & handbag specialist Helen Doyle looks at a surprisingly overlooked aspect of high-value assets: handbags. You might insure your jewellery and watch collection, but are your handbags getting the same consideration? Discover why these appreciating assets are frequently disregarded and the potential consequences of overlooking them. Helen covers exclusive brands...

In this episode, Asian art specialist Ashley Innes looks at incredible Chinese art collections across North America, from Canada to the US. She recounts her journey through museums, uncovering hidden gems and sharing personal favourites, including a truly remarkable and ancient sculpture. Discover the fascinating blend of cultures and history behind these treasures – Listen now to hear what she fi...

In this episode, Asian art specialist Ashley Innes looks at the rising popularity of AI chatbots and their impact on art valuation. Are these digital assistants a helpful tool or a source of potential pitfalls for collectors? Discover why even seemingly straightforward questions can yield wildly different answers depending on the chatbot you use, and learn why relying solely on AI can lead to sign...

In this episode, written by jewellery specialist, Aurélia Turrall, we look at the surprising scale of the counterfeit jewellery problem, with billions of dollars worth of fakes flooding into Europe. What are the telltale signs that your treasured piece might not be the real deal? We’re diving into the world of Pandora and Amazon’s fight against fakes, uncovering hidden clues in maker’s marks and m...

In this episode, written by ceramics and glass specialist, Matilda Burn, we look at the fascinating story of Meissen's porcelain birds – a royal obsession that began with a passion for collecting Asian porcelain and evolved into something truly spectacular. Discover the incredible artistry behind these life-size porcelain creatures, the lengths – and passion – that went into creating these remarka...

In this episode, our team of specialists look at some of the most compelling exhibitions happening this autumn. From portraits capturing the gaze between creative peers, to a fascinating pairing of modern British artists you might not know, and the first UK exhibition devoted to the French queen Marie Antoinette. Listen now to discover the exhibitions you absolutely can't miss! Hosted on Acast. Se...

In this episode, contemporary art specialist Ben Hanly looks at the work of celebrity artists. Ever wonder what your favourite actors and musicians do when they’re not on screen or on stage? Ben uncovers hidden layers of creativity, exploring the artistic endeavours of stars like Pierce Brosnan, Lucy Liu, Johnny Depp, Ronnie Wood and even Silvester Stallone. Discover how these icons express themse...

In this episode, Jewellery, Silver & Watches Specialist Liz Bailey looks at the remarkable private collection of the late TV expert and silver specialist Michael Baggott, being sold over three auctions at Woolley & Wallis. Discover a lifetime’s passion for silver and hear how one specialist’s incredible knowledge shaped the world of antiques. What treasures will be revealed in the upcoming...

In this episode, Contemporary Art Specialist Jonathan Horwich looks at the fascinating story of Beryl Cook, an artist whose work was initially misunderstood but is now celebrated for its joyful depictions of everyday life. Discover how this late-blooming artist, playfully dubbed "Rubens with jokes," captured the spirit of ordinary people with vibrant colour and an unfiltered eye. We explore the le...

In this episode, silver specialist Fiona Hamilton looks at the stunning art collection housed within the Scottish Parliament building. Discover how this architectural masterpiece wasn't just designed for debate, but also as a showcase for artistic talent, celebrating inclusivity and equality. From modern representations of royal regalia to abstract steel sculptures inspired by music and family his...

In this episode, senior valuer & collectibles specialist Stephanie Connell looks at the fascinating market for famous and historic glasses – from rare frames potentially becoming the star-worn collectables of the future, to sales from the estates of famously bespectacled individuals fetching incredible prices. Discover how provenance dictates value, and learn about some eye-catching sales, inc...

In this episode, senior valuer & watches specialist Alastair Meiklejon looks at the fascinating world of collectible guitars, where a musician’s fame can eclipse the instrument’s inherent value. Discover how a seemingly ordinary Epiphone Les Paul, once played by a key figure in a legendary band, became an incredibly valuable piece of music history, fetching a price far beyond initial estimates...

In this episode, we sit down with rare books & manuscripts, historical photographs and maps consultant, Richard Fattorini to talk about the world of rare books. Hear about surprising discoveries, shifting market trends, and common misconceptions within this fascinating field. What makes a rare book truly valuable? Is age the most important factor? Find out what stories lie hidden within the pa...