On the 1st of February this year Anthemion Auctions begins its busy yearly programme of sales. The first auction of the year is a General Sale, comprising antique and later furniture, porcelain, glass, paintings and many other items, and is always a hive of activity and variety.
General sales are held monthly, being very popular with both dealers in the furniture and antiques trade and with members of the general public looking to obtain unique items at competitive prices.
Recent converts to the excitement of buying at auction are often surprised by the quality and diversity of pieces they are able to bid on. When furnishing a property on a budget for instance, it is possible to obtain a variety of antique furniture for significantly less than the discount prices of the modern mass produced ranges
At the other end of the spectrum, Fine Arts and Antique Sales, which are held three times a year, offer buyers the chance to buy high quality period furniture and rare ceramics, as well as beautiful antique jewellery and silver, oil paintings and unique works of art.
At the most recent Fine Art Sale in November 2011, over 900 lots were offered for sale; treasures included a Llanelly pottery chestnut basket and stand which sold for £820.00, a George V Silver table centrepiece (as illustrated) which sold for £1,150 and a Donald McIntyre Oil painting, Church in Lleyn, which sold for £3000.
The Fine Art sale attracts many collectors of jewellery, who are presented with a range of pieces spanning several centuries and ranging from tens to thousands in value. Buyers may be specialist dealers in jewellery, or again, members of the public looking for something more truly unique than the ranges available in high street jewellers. In the November auction successful sales included an exquisite emerald and diamond ring sold for £400 and a 9ct yellow gold open faced pocket watch sold for £920
This sale also offers the chance to purchase impressive statement pieces of antique furniture, proving to be an invaluable resource not just for the private collector, but also for those involved in projects on a larger scale, such as the re-furnishing of hotels, period buildings, or other public spaces where an impact is required. A recent example, as pictured, is a set of ten carved oak dining chairs, decorated with scrolls and leaves, which were purchased for the purpose of furnishing an executive conference room.
During the course of the year Anthemion also hold two Sporting memorabilia and collectors auctions. These sales offer an interesting and eclectic mix of historical sporting items across Rugby Union, Asscociation Football, cricket, boxing golf and other sports, as well as specialist collectors items including cigarette cards, postcards, stamps, toys, railwayana and many more.
While the auction rooms can be a paradise for buyers and collectors, it should be remembered also that the vast majority of sellers are members of the general public, who are often surprised by the values of unused items in their homes.
The Fine and Collectors Auctions are internationally marketed, with online catalogues and full online bidding available to achieve the best prices for sellers’ items.
Entries are currently being accepted for the next Fine Art Auction on the 21st March 2012, as well as for regular monthly and collectors sales.
Anthemion offer a free valuation day on Fridays between 10.a.m and 4p.m, and are able to enter a wide range of items into an appropriate auction for anyone wishing to sell.
If you would like any further information please contact the Auction House on 02920 472444.