Articles From The Experts

In this episode, rare books & manuscripts consultant specialist, Richard Fattorini, previews the UK’s biggest international rare book fair, Firsts London 2025. This year, centred around the theme "Books in Bloom," Richard delves into the unique intersection of literature and botany. He looks at how books about gardens and plants have inspired writers from Shakespeare to Frances Hodgson Burnett and how the event promises a unique experience for book lovers and plant enthusiasts alike.

In this episode, Old Masters specialist, David Dallas shines a spotlight on the life and work of Mary Moser, a groundbreaking yet often forgotten artist from the 18th century. As one of the first women admitted to the Royal Academy, Mary Moser faced significant barriers due to gender norms. Despite this, she excelled as a flower painter, and at the pinnacle of her career she was awarded a prestigious commission from Queen Charlotte to decorate Frogmore House, where her floral designs remain today. As an accomplished but often overlooked artist, her works are both historically significant and undervalued, making them potentially accessible for those seeking rare and meaningful art.

In this episode, senior valuer & wristwatch specialist, Alastair Meiklejon looks at the fascinating history of playing cards and their evolution over centuries. From their origins in ancient Egypt, where early suits emerged, to the French invention of the standard suits we know today - Hearts, Diamonds, Clubs, and Spades. Playing cards became an integral part of global gaming and have enduring appeal as collectibles in modern times. Alastair shares his knowledge on why certain cards hold significant value today and trends that make playing cards a timeless and valuable collectible.

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watches specialist, Liz Bailey explores the captivating story of Omega Speedmaster watches linked to the Apollo space program. She reveals how these extraordinary timepieces have achieved incredible prices at auction, hinting at the remarkable history and prestige behind them. Hear about the fascinating stories, and staggering sums, attached to those that belonged to the fearless astronauts who wore them.

In this episode, jewellery, silver & watches specialist, Liz Bailey, looks at jump hour Watches and Cartier’s latest release of the Tank à Guichets in their Privé collection. Exploring the history of these timepieces, which first emerged in the late 19th century, Liz highlights how Cartier’s reinterpretation of this iconic style is capturing collector interest. She also looks at other notable jump hour watches from brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Breguet, exploring their varying values at auction and providing a comprehensive overview of why these watches continue to intrigue and inspire enthusiasts worldwide.

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 Easter egg hunt, tracing its roots back to 18th-century Europe and the influence of German immigrants in America. Jenny shares insights into how Easter eggs have evolved over time, from traditional egg hunts to the commercialisation of chocolate eggs, and ties together the threads of history, culture, and craftsmanship that make these traditions so enduring.

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, championed freedom and style for women, influencing fashion and reflecting a move towards more active lifestyles.

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 pieces, the exhibition showcases the versatility and allure of pearls. What treasures did Liz discover, and what makes Paris the undisputed capital of pearls? Listen now to find out!