Articles From The Experts

In this episode, silver & jewellery specialist Jenny Knott looks at the fascinating world of Fabergé eggs and their connection to Easter traditions. Drawing on her expertise, Jenny delves into the recent sale of a rare and extraordinary collection of Fabergé eggs, highlighting their historical significance and the staggering prices they fetched at auction. She also explores the origins of the...

In this episode, rare books and manuscripts specialist Richard Fattorini looks at the remarkable libraries of the late comedian Barry Humphries, better known as Dame Edna Everage. The podcast details two auctions held by Christie's and Forum Auctions, revealing the scope and value of Humphries' extensive collection, which numbered over 4,000 volumes. The auctions showcased a wide range of literary...

In this episode, jewellery specialist Aurélia Turrall looks at the new partnership between Chanel and The Oxford Cambridge Boat Race. This year, the historic sporting event is sponsored by Chanel and rebranded as The Chanel J12 Boat Race. Aurélia explores the reasons behind this partnership by delving into the history of the J12 watch. She also looks at how Gabrielle Chanel, a keen sportswoman, ch...

Paris has reigned as the undisputed European “City of Pearls,” since the late 1860s. In this episode, jewellery, silver & watch specialist Liz Bailey journals her visit to the ‘Paris - City of Pearls’ exhibition hosted by Van Cleef & Arpels' L'Ecole School of Jewellery Arts. From Art Nouveau creations featuring baroque and Mississippi pearls to exquisite Art Deco designs and contemporary p...

In this episode, silver & jewellery specialist Jenny Knott looks at the delicate details that keep our precious jewellery safe and sound. From royal mishaps to personal losses, Jenny highlights the importance of clasps, settings, and other small components. It's not just about the sparkle, but also about what keeps your jewellery safe and secure. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more...

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watches specialist Liz Bailey looks at some of the exceptional pieces on display at this year’s TEFAF Maastricht, from heritage collections to contemporary designs. Focusing on fine jewellery and watches, Liz highlights some of the must-see items at the fair, including pieces from Van Cleef & Arpels, René Lalique, Hemmerle, and Patek Philippe offering a...

In this episode, silver specialist Fiona Hamilton looks at Glasgow's Burrell Collection, a treasure trove nestled in a park. She delves into the story of Sir William Burrell, the shipping magnate whose passion for art led him to amass an incredible array of artifacts. Fiona shares her own experiences with the collection as she explores this remarkable museum and the legacy of a man who w...

In this episode, Old Master specialist David Dallas looks at the life and work of highly successful Dutch painter Rachel Ruysch. Known for her exquisite flower still lifes, she benefited from early training under renowned artists and even had a father who was a professor of anatomy and botany, providing inspiration for her work. Ruysch's talent led to significant financial success, membership in p...

In this episode, silver specialist, Fiona Hamilton, takes a moment to appreciate the incredible sacrifices made by women in the 19th and early 20th centuries to win the right to vote. With International Women’s Day around the corner, it’s the perfect time to reflect on their bravery. The suffragettes didn’t just talk about change, they took action. From hunger strikes to protests and even airships...

In this episode, senior valuer & wristwatch specialist Alastair Meiklejon, delves into the world of insurance valuations, DIY furniture painting, and why your curtains might be worth more than you think! From the rise of "Cluttercore" to the mysterious disappearance of minimalist living, Alastair unpacks the wonderful ways we’ve transformed our homes, and ourselves, in recent years. He reveals...

Barry Humphries’ passion for art collecting is almost as well-known as his comedic persona of Dame Edna Everage. Over the years, he amassed an impressive collection of contemporary and modern artworks. His approach to art collecting was serious and deliberate, reflecting his sharp eye for unique and valuable works. Barry Humphries, who passed away in 2023, had a collection that went to auction in...

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watch specialist Liz Bailey reviews the highly anticipated Christie’s sale, featuring the eclectic collection of Iris Apfel - a treasure trove of vibrant, bold, and unique pieces. From luxurious Italian armchairs that exceeded their price expectations to eye-catching designer clothing and jewellery, the event was a celebration of Apfel's iconic style. Many...

In this episode, senior valuer & wristwatch specialist Alastair Meiklejon covers the key areas involved in identifying fake Rolex watches, and the motivations of people who knowingly purchase them. Get expert tips on what to look for when examining a Rolex Submariner, including the case, crystal, bracelet, movement, dial, and bezel. Finally, Alastair emphasises the importance of considering th...

In this episode, jewellery, handbag and wristwatch specialist Helen Doyle looks at some iconic jewellery that would make perfect Valentine’s Day gifts! From famous collections like Van Cleef & Arpels' Alhambra, Cartier's Love bracelet, and Tiffany & Co.'s legendary engagement rings to the cultural significance of rubies and their captivating colour variations, if you’re looking for that pe...

In this episode, jewellery and watch specialist, Liz Bailey looks at the history of Bulgari Serpenti watches. She explores how these iconic timepieces have captivated celebrities and collectors alike for over 75 years. She looks at the different eras and models of Serpenti watches, including the original 1960s snake-shaped designs, as well as more modern iterations such as the diamond-set Serpenti...

In this episode, Asian art specialist, Ashley Crawford celebrates the Lunar New Year and The Year of the Snake by exploring the cultural significance of the snake in Chinese art. She looks at specific examples of snake imagery, including Tang Dynasty terracotta figurines and Qing Dynasty jade sculptures. If you're interested in collecting these kinds of pieces, Ashley gives some pro tips on where...

In this episode, jewellery specialist, Liz Bailey explores the growing popularity of marquise-cut diamonds. With increasing market value, fuelled by shortages and celebrity influences like Selena Gomez's engagement ring, 2025 is shaping up to be the year of the marquise-cut. Liz delves into the history of the cut, its unique shape, and the key factors influencing its value: colour, clarity, cut gr...

The pearl market is experiencing a revival driven by sustainability and interest from younger generations. This is reflected in auction sales, with high prices for both natural and cultured pearls, especially larger, flawless examples with designer attribution or historical significance. In this episode, jewellery specialist, Liz Bailey looks at some of the standout auction results that illustrate...

In this episode, old master specialist, David Dallas looks at the December 2024 Old Master art sales in London which saw decent results despite fewer high-quality pieces and a smaller number of lots overall compared to previous years. While buyers seemed willing to pay strong prices for select works, particularly those by established names like Botticelli and van Dyck. The Sotheby's sale exceeded...

Get ready for a crash course in festive tippling! In this episode, old master specialist, David Dallas shares his festive wine recommendations. But this isn't just about recommending wines, it’s about finding hidden gems that won't break the bank. David shares some clever tips on navigating Christmas dinner pairings, from surprising alternatives to bubbly that might even outshine the real thing, t...

In this episode, impressionist, post war & contemporary art specialist, Ben Hanly takes a detailed look at the current state of the art market. Despite facing challenges from global inflation, political instability, and lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the art market demonstrated resilience in 2023-2024. While overall sales decreased by 4%, high-value artworks continued to fetch imp...

In this episode, silver specialist, Fiona Hamilton looks at the history and cultural significance of the quaich, a traditional Scottish two-lugged bowl. She explores how the quaich evolved from simple wooden forms to elaborate silver pieces, often engraved with intricate designs. Today, the quaich remains a cherished symbol of Scotland's heritage, representing hospitality, trust, and the enduring...

In this special episode, modern & contemporary art specialist, Jonathan Horwich pays tribute Frank Auerbach who passed away earlier this month. One of Britain's most important painters, he left behind a legacy of intensely personal and raw works. Shaped by his experience as a Jewish refugee during World War II, Auerbach poured his emotional depth and complexity into portraits and cityscapes. W...

In this episode, jewellery, handbag & wristwatch specialist Helen Doyle unveils a treasure trove of information in her essential guide to buying designer handbags. A must listen for anyone interested in acquiring or investing in luxury handbags, Helen delves deep into the intricacies of authenticating high-end bags from renowned brands like Chanel and Louis Vuitton. She goes beyond simple visu...

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watches specialist Liz Bailey explores the history and enduring appeal of Cartier’s Tortue wristwatch, originally designed by Louis Cartier in 1912 and named for its tortoise-shell-shaped case. The Tortue gained a unique status, evolving from a simple watch into Cartier’s first chronograph in 1928. The Tortue has retained its value over the years, with new...