Articles From The Experts

In this episode, Asian art specialist Ashley Innes looks at the enduring significance of the horse in Chinese art and culture. From ancient burial practices where horses symbolised status and power, to the popularisation of these figures across dynasties like the Han and Tang, hear how horses have consistently appeared in visual media – and continue to be highly sought after by collectors today. Listen now to learn about the diverse range of art featuring these magnificent creatures, from ceramics and sculpture to textiles and jade.

In this episode, Old Master specialist David Dallas looks at the recent February Old Master auctions in New York, where masterpieces led the way to impressive sales. Discover how paintings from the Lester Weindling Collection performed and hear about standout pieces like works by Canaletto, Artemisia Gentileschi, Fragonard, and Teniers, which achieved significant prices and even world records, confirming the growing desirability for works by female artists. Listen now to hear why these auctions outperformed their London counterparts.

In this episode, jewellery, handbag and watch specialist Helen Doyle looks at some truly exceptional gifts perfect for Valentine's Day. From the exquisite, diamond-focused creations of Graff to the iconic status and value retention of Hermès handbags like the Birkin and Kelly, Helen explores what makes these items truly special. She also looks on the latest offerings from Rolex, including a new sports model unveiled at Watches and Wonders 2025. And crucially, she discusses protecting these investment gifts with Doerr Dallas’ professional valuation services. Listen now to find out more about the world's most desirable Valetine’s gifts!

In this episode, the Doerr Dallas specialists looks at market trends for 2026 and how these may affect current valuations. From record-breaking gold prices and evolving diamond values to the buoyant rare book market and the contrasting fortunes of antique furniture – discover where the opportunities and risks lie in the collecting world. We’ll explore how provenance, condition, and a new generation of collectors are reshaping tastes and driving value. Listen now to stay ahead of the curve and understand what these shifts mean for your prized possessions.

In this episode, contemporary art specialist Jonathan Horwich looks at the captivating life and work of Quentin Blake, a beloved British illustrator and children's author. Jonathan shares his lifelong fascination with Blake’s work and the subtle details that reveal the artistry behind the images. Listen now to hear his unique perspective on a truly iconic figure!

In this episode, senior valuer Alastair Meiklejon looks at a "stubbornly brown" piece of Victorian furniture that recently defied expectations to command a staggering price when it crossed the rostrum at Christie’s in London. While most desks live quiet lives supporting laptops and unread paperwork, this desk served as the "machinery" behind the creation of The Lord of the Rings. Alastair discusses why this sale proves that value is about meaning rather than craftsmanship. Listen now to hear how a piece of furniture, often written off as dull or irrelevant, can turn out to be the most important item in the room.

In this episode, jewellery specialist Liz Bailey looks at what’s trending in the world of jewellery for 2026. She investigates the predictions straight from the runway, exploring how tastes are changing and what pieces will be most valuable in the years to come. Forget stacking – there’s a new focus on bold, sculptural pieces. Liz has the insider information on metals, rings, and even how semi-precious stones are making a major statement. Plus, learn how to protect your collection and ensure it remains valuable for generations. Listen now to discover the trends you need to know!

In this episode, Old Master specialist David Dallas looks at the recent London Old Master sales, revealing a mixed bag of successes and surprises. David examines the highlights from Sotheby's and Christie's and discover which artists were in high demand and which pieces failed to find buyers. The overall sales figures were the highest in seven years, but the distribution of wealth wasn’t quite even. Listen now to hear David’s expert analysis and find out what these sales tell us about the current state of the Old Master market.

In this episode, senior valuer & watch specialist Alastair Meiklejon looks at the extraordinary rise in value of the work of François-Xavier Lalanne. Once considered charmingly eccentric, his animal sculptures are now selling for staggering sums. But what's driving this incredible phenomenon? From the artist’s unique history to the dynamics of the art market itself, listen now to discover how a decorative artist became a record-breaking sensation and what it takes for an animal sculpture to become the ultimate collector’s item.