Articles From The Experts

In this episode, Old Masters specialist, David Dallas, looks at the Sotheby’s New York sale of Old Masters from the collection of Jordan and Thomas A. Saunders III. The sale, titled "Elegance and Wonder," ultimately underperformed expectations, with a significant portion of the paintings failing to find buyers. But despite the disappointing overall result, the sale saw several paintings achieve world record prices.

In this episode, jewellery specialist Liz Bailey looks at the fascinating story behind two iconic Cartier tiaras belonging to Nancy Astor and her sister Phyllis Brand. These exquisite pieces, crafted in the early 20th century, reflect the international design influences of the time and the close bond between the Langhorne sisters. The tiaras are now set to reunite in London, with one being sold at Bonhams and the other displayed at the V&A Cartier Exhibition. Liz Bailey looks into their history, design details, and the remarkable tale of how they came to symbolise the sisters' shared taste and legacy.

In this episode, jewellery specialist, Aurélia Turrall writes about the incredible Cartier exhibition taking place at the Victoria & Albert Museum. From elegant Art Deco pieces to bold statements of modern luxury, this exhibition transports you on a journey through Cartier’s fascinating history. Hear how these iconic creations reflect Cartier’s timeless appeal and the stories behind their making.

In this episode, our team of experts highlight some of the must-see exhibitions taking place this summer. From bold contemporary installations to historic masterpieces, there’s something for every taste across London and the UK. Hear recommendations from Ashley Crawford, Fiona Hamilton, Stephanie Connell, Jenny Knott, Liz Bailey, Richard Fattorini and Ben Hanly as they share their top picks, including Antony Gormley’s early lead sculptures, David Hockney’s immersive digital show, and the highly anticipated Cartier exhibition at the V&A. Whether you’re exploring the Renaissance treasures at the Courtauld Gallery or the vibrant creativity of Edinburgh’s RSA Annual Exhibition, this season offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Don’t miss their suggestions for making the most of these artistic wonders.

In this episode, written by contemporary art specialist, Ben Hanley and read by Jenny Serra, we look at the vibrant art scene in London during the first two weeks of May, focusing on two major events: the Affordable Art Fair and Photo London. These fairs cater to diverse audiences and offer a wide range art for sale. The Affordable Art Fair, which began in 1999, continues its mission to make art accessible and affordable, and featured works from 106 galleries. Meanwhile, Photo London, marking its 10th anniversary, presents a more serious and inclusive approach to photography, showcasing works by legendary photographers like Bill Brandt and contemporary talents such as Harry Cory Wright. We share our insights on how these events reflect the dynamic and evolving nature of the art world in London.

As this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show gets under way, senior valuer & collectors specialist, Stephanie Connell explores the hidden treasures of British gardens. Digging into the rich legacy of gardening in the UK, tracing its roots back to Roman times, Stephanie shares some recent auction highlights that perfectly illustrate the fascinating and valuable items that can be hidden in our outdoor spaces.

In this episode, written by silver & whisky specialist, Colin Fraser, and read by Helen Doyle we look at the current state of the whisky investment market and the challenges it faces. We highlight the misleading and potentially fraudulent practices that have led to significant losses for investors and discuss the risks involved in investing in whisky casks. Get advice on the importance of working with reputable brokers, understanding provenance, and regularly valuing your cask. Also, learn how to ensure clear ownership and protect yourself from potential pitfalls in this complex market.

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.