ARTS & ANTIQUES Tales from the

Art & Antiques

ANTIQUES & ART

COLIN YOUNG, TV AUCTIONEER

Auctioneer and valuer Colin Young brings the gavel down on about 70,000 lots each year, and hosts monthly sales across the region, assisting private clients to sell their items and helping others to curate their own collections of art, antiques and modern collectables...

Everything has a value, but nothing we’ve come However, nothing beats the pace and humour of the across is quite as valuable as Colin Young’s advice, sales room, and that’s undoubtedly why Colin has especially when it comes to buying or selling art, been so successful over the past 33 years he’s been in antiques and modern collectables, something he’s the industry. been doing for nearly 35 years. “There’s a thin line between an auctioneer and an Paying a visit to Colin’s sale rooms – the company has anarchist,” he says. “It’s important to engage with the premises in Bourne and an office in Stamford – is a audience, make them feel the atmosphere and the real treat because you never know quite what you’re excitement of the sale room.” going to find... and for a keen browser, that’s a good “It’s a unique and fun place to be, and the more of a thing, but the more focused buyer might want to be buzz there is, the more of an exciting atmosphere, a little more meticulous and view each sale’s the better the reflection on the business.” online catalogue first. Colin was born and raised in Thurlby near Bourne and began working at Banging the Hammer “After that, achieving good prices for the seller will take care of itself and buyers will enjoy the experience.” Bourne Auction Rooms from the age That’s not to say, though, that mereof 18. He quickly discovered he loved live in the sale room – perhaps for the same reasons his buyers do; you never know what you’re going to Colin and the team reckon they bring the hammer down on over 70,000 lots each year. The company hosts general or ‘collective’ sales in Grantham, charisma will get you though life as an auctioneer. “It’s necessary to be technically brilliant,” Colin admits. find – and spent three years there be- Bourne and in Lincoln “After all, you’ve live bids, phone fore moving to Goldings of Grantham, every month. bids and internet-bids all coming in established back in 1900. simultaneously, so you have to be aware of Working his way up in the company, and spending what’s going on and count forward.” over five years of his career managing the sale room, Nonetheless, in contrast to the idea that sale rooms are Colin joined the business to form Golding Young in austere and only for antiques buffs, Colin is always 1994, and the firm merged with Thomas Mawer & happy when people discover the fun for the first time. Son in 2010 to complete the firm’s nomenclature. In 2012, the company opened its Stamford office, and added Louth to its list of sale rooms in 2016. “Some people are still intimidated by the auction room, by the myth that you’ll scratch your nose and buy a Rembrandt, but the reality is we’re here for Naturally the past few years have presented difficulties both seller and buyer, and it’s in our interest to make for a type of business which has traditionally relied the experience fun and lively and likable.” on filling the sale room with crowds of people. “The banter you can have, bringing people in, Fortunately we live in an age where, as well as people reading their body language and the humour are allbuying at a sale in person, there are simultaneous telephone and internet bids coming in life. part of the sale experience.” During lockdown, Colin was able to host sales online, and made the best of the situation with good humour... people were also stuck at home and so in that sense, there was a captive audience out there. Colin now employs over 40 people. After all, in addition to hosting the sales, there’s stock to pick up, assess, deliver to buyers and catalogues to compile. >>

Buying at an Auction House...

Facts & Figures

n Do it! Purchasing at an auction is a fun – it’s rather addictive in fact – and your prospective purchase will have been assessed by an expert beforehand. n Research the sale beforehand, and view your prospective purchases noting the lot number. Set a budget – perhaps with a contingency –for larger purchases, and take along a print out of the auction catalogue, proof of ID and address and the ability to make payment which is always due on sale day. n You can make an Absentee (Commission) bid prior to the sale if you can’t be there in person, or a bid via telephone or online, live. Auction houses like Golding Young Mawer can deliver items to you, after the sale, too.

ANTIQUES & ART

COLIN YOUNG, TV AUCTIONEER

>> He’s proud of the team and how they adapted to life under lockdown, but one particular member of staff stood out. “Kirsty, my daughter, has been working here for 10 years, having come along for work experience and finding herself instantly hooked on the buzz of the sales room environment.”

“She’s completed her junior exams and she’s absolutely flourished. Her decision making is always absolutely spot on, and when the going gets tough –as it did when we were going into lockdown – she really is tough and she gets on with it.” Colin even concedes that her jokes and banter as the gavel comes down are as good as his, which is good news for the seller and buyer. “Getting stock is the easy bit,” says Colin. “Private individuals, liquidations of businesses, estate clearances… it’s a real misconception that you have to send off a huge amount to the auction room.” “In fact, many of our lots are single items, and we’re always happy to visit those who are downsizing from large properties or redesigning their homes and want to have a single item or just a couple of bits valued for sale; we’re always happy to advise.” The company sells around 70,000 lots each year and undertakes about 8,500 vendor consignments annually, with monthly collective sales as well as specialist sales for fine art, Asian arts and ceramics, even September’s toy, transport and automobilia sale. Technology has also brought online auction sites. Has that damaged the industry? No, says Colin. In fact, it’s separated the wheat from the chaff and proven that services of proper auction houses are more reliable than ever.

“You can pay a commission to online sites, and do all the work yourself,” says Colin. “Or you can pay us to do all the work; collect the item, photograph it, catalogue it, process the sale, publicise it and collect the funds with the security of RICS regulation.” “The public realise that it makes sense to entrust items to professionals, especially when they’re seeking a professional valuation for an item, or when dealing with specialist items.

Colin’s successes include a cello which sold to a Canadian collector for £11,000, a sideboard which sold for a cool £135,000 and a James Campbell painting which was sold to the Tate Modern Gallery for £15,000. The firm’s antiques and fine art department has valued about £40,000,000 of items over the past five years or so.

Valuation in particular is tricky, but if you’ve only chance to achieve a good price for your item, and as Colin represents both buyer and seller, you’re in much safer hands with a professional... and as a buyer, you can access a wider range an a higher quality of stock, meaning a better experience, and of course, the chance to enjoy Colin’s banter, or if you’re really fortunate, Kirsty’s! n

Colin Young has 33 years experience as an auctioneer based at Golding Young, established in 1864. The company has sale rooms in Bourne, Grantham and Lincoln, and offices in Stamford and Louth. For no-obligation advice, valuations and to view catalogues of future sales online, see www.goldingyoung.com or call 01778 422686.

How To Buy Antiques...

n Today, used term antiques is used interchangeably with vintage or collectable items. Some dealers of antiques use the ‘100 years old’ rule to determine what they consider differentiates an antique (over a century old) from vintage and collectable items... though no absolute definition exists. n Age, rarity, quality, historical significance and current tastes all effect value, but no factor is more important than how abundant an item is. Following he rule of supply and demand, the rarer, more specific or more difficult to obtain something is, the greater its value. n One thing that almost all experts do agree on is that you should only ever buy items that you love, not simply on the expectation of their appreciation in value. Fashions come and go, but if you purchase something you enjoy owning there’s always a good justification for its purchase. n TV programmes teach you to haggle... but antiques dealers need to make a living, and one local dealer told us that their pet peeve is overzealous customers making outrageously low offers... a sure-fire way of not securing the piece you have your eye on!

A Modern Way to Enjoy BAROQUE ART AT BURGHLEY

Extraordinary artist Artemisia Gentileschi’s work comes to life at Burghley House this month in a truly unique exhibition, which takes place using virtual reality tech to place the viewer right inside the studio of the baroque artist once called ‘The Beyoncé of art history...’

IT’S AN ART EXHIBITION... with a difference! This month Burghley House invites you to take a trip back in time and across the ocean to Baroque Italy, without ever leaving Stamford!

Your destination is the studio of the artist variously described by ‘the Beyoncé of baroque art,’ as ‘art history’s greatest heroine,’ and as ‘thrilling and magnificent.’ Artemisia Gentileschi was born in July 1593 to Prudenzia di Ottaviano Montoni and the Tuscan painter Orazio Gentileschi, originally from Pisa, but who moved to Rome when his own work found fame.

Following the death of her mother in 1605, Artemisia was raised solely by her father, who by all accounts doted on her, perhaps because the two shared a love of drawing, mixing colours and learning how to paint. By the age of 18 her father boasted that she was peerless in her field, matching – or perhaps improving upon – her father’s style which was itself influenced by Caravaggio. Artemisia’s earliest surviving work is Susanna and the Elders which depicts the biblical story of the same name. But a year later, the artist was assaulted by one of her father’s colleagues, the artist Tassi, and a trial ensued in which Artemisia’s status as a virgin was questioned over seven harrowing months, during which she was even tortured with thumbscrews to verify her testimony. Perhaps because of this experience a huge amount of her work depicts strong or suffering women and anguish. Almost immediately after the ordeal of the trial, Artemisia moved to Florence and was the first woman to be accepted into the Accademia delle Arti del Disegno. The artist befriended Galileo Galilei and also became familiar with music, theatre and fashion – her work is reputed to feature among the most lavish clothing of the Baroque period. >>

Burghley House’s 1652 painting Susannah and the Elders, is described by Jon Culverhouse as ‘one of the jewels in the crown’ of the estate’s art collection...’

>> Returning to Rome in 1620, Artemisia found great wealth, and was among the most in demand of artists at the time, her Carrivagist style and use of chiaroscuro yielding work like Judith and Her Maidservant and Annunciation. Artemisia moved to Naples in 1630, and eight years later, joined her father in London in the court of Charles I. The two worked together on allegories and the king was himself a fan of Artemisia’s work. The death of her father in 1939 and the English Civil War saw Artemisia return to Naples and it’s believed that she died around 1652, survived by a daughter named Palmira, who was also a painter. Curiously, Artemisia’s work was largely forgotten until the late 20th century, and most recently London’s National Gallery’s 2020 exhibition of her work was lauded by the art work with the BBC’s Will Gompertz questioning ‘whether there has even been a better, bolder painter of human drama.’

The Guardian’s Jonathan Jones stated that Artemisia’s work is a ‘thrill ride from beginning to end,’ and Alastair Sooke writing in The Telegraph remarked that the artist was ‘art history’s greatest heroine.’

Burghley House is proud to own Artemisia’s 1652 painting Susannah and the Elders, with the estate’s curator of exhibitions Jon Culverhouse describing the painting as ‘one of the jewels in the crown of the Burghley art collection.’

That’s why, this month, the estate is inviting visitors to enjoy an exhibition of Artemisia Gentileschi’s work... but with a difference. Visitors will embark on a virtual reality experience, putting on a headset and totally immersing themselves in the story of Artemisia Gentileschi in her studio.

“Narrated by musician and author, Cerys Matthews, The Light in the Shadow is experienced through virtual reality headsets and explores the fascinating story of one of today’s most celebrated Baroque artists,” says Jon. “The 14-minute experience follows Artemisia’s journey as she navigates a world where women have virtually no rights to become one of Europe’s most accomplished and in-demand painters of her time who continues to capture imaginations today.” “In the virtual reality experience, an unprecedented collection of Artemisia’s work is gathered into a single experience, where each viewer can admire the work in their own immersive world. One special piece which features in the experience is Burghley House’s very own Artemisia Gentileschi painting Susannah and the Elders.” “Purchased by the ninth Earl of Exeter whilst in Rome, the 400-year-old painting is Artemisia’s earliest-known work. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to view the historic painting which will be on display in the House for the duration of the exhibition.”

“The painting is not normally on public display at Burghley, so it is a unique chance to view this extraordinary piece of art.”>>

>> The Light in the Shadow has been created by UK based film and immersive production companies, Fat Red Bird (run by Gaëlle Mourre) and Monkey Frame (run by Quentin Darras) and co-produced by award-winning British writer, director, and producer Charlotte Mikkelborg.

“It’s the latest episode in a (Hi)Story of a Painting series co-created by artist and filmmakers Gaëlle Mourre and Quentin Darras, with each episode focusing on a renowned painter,” says Jon.

“It’s aimed at engaging new audiences with art by creating accessible and relatable experiences, the series focuses on the human stories behind some of the world’s most iconic art.”

“The visuals and virtual environment appear in support of the narration, helping to illustrate and anchor the narrator’s story in the viewer’s mind.”

“The collection of fine art owned by Burghley House is extensive and varied, and includes many highly important objects...”

Co-creators Mourre and Darras said: “It’s such a treat to get to show our piece in as remarkable a place as this, one that offers viewers a rare opportunity for holistic immersion.”

“To start the transition from the physical world into the virtual world before even putting on a headset is integral to a rich virtual reality experience and Burghley House naturally allows for this - the history, architecture and magnificent scenery create a wonderful sense of displacement.” The Light in the Shadow’s Co-producer, Charlotte Mikkelborg, added: “Burghley’s brilliant Curator Jon Culverhouse has been a key supporter of the project since I first reached out to him in September 2021. With Burghley House’s incredible art collection, from works as imposing as Verrio’s Hell Staircase to exquisite miniatures like The Virgin and Child by Artemisia’s father Orazio, we are beyond excited to be able to bring our VR experience here.” The collection of fine art owned by Burghley House is extensive and varied, and includes many highly important objects. For instance the collection of Italian Old Master paintings is one of the finest in private hands. The collections of both Oriental and European ceramics are world famous and of great interest to scholars. Fine English and continental furniture, 17th century Objects of Vertu, English portrait miniatures and European Works of Art all feature strongly, as does Artemesia’s own Susannah and the Elders. n

The virtual reality experience ‘The Light in the Shadow’, featuring the life and work of Artemisia Gentileschi, will run at Burghley House until 31st August (excluding Fridays). Tickets are £10 per person, available to book online at www.burghley.co.uk or purchase on the day. Visit Burghley House, PE9 3JY. For more information call 01780 752451.

Portrait of a Lady, dressed in a gold embroidered costume, early 1620s.

1. St Martin’s Antiques

LOCATED ON ST MARTINS, in Stamford, St Martin’s Antiques brings together over 70 dealers in one centre. Founded in 1993 by Peter Light and now run by daughter Lucinda Silcock, it’s based in the former Pick Motor Works. n High Street St Martin’s, Stamford PE9 2LF. Call 01780 481158 or see www.st-martins-antiques.co.uk.

Arts & Antiques.

4. Uppingham Antiques

LOCATED ON HIGH STREET EAST, The Uppingham Antiques Centre has a fantastic selection of antiques of all varieties from over 50 dealers. Furniture, clocks, architectural, porcelain, rugs, glass, equestrian, treen, boxes, mirrors, shabby chic, objects, objects de vertu, silver... n High Street East, Uppingham LE15 9PY. Call 01572 822155.

St Martin’s Antiques.

3. Arts & Antiques

BASED IN UPPINGHAM, Mark and Diane (and Goldendoodle, Charlie) have curated a collection of modern antiques in their Crown Passage shop, including pop music themed memorabilia, militaria and also photographic art by Mark Hayward. n Crown Passage, Uppingham. Call 01572824011 or see shop.rutlandantiques.co.uk.

Uppingham Antiques.

6. Garden Classics

RUTLAND GARDEN CLASSICS is run by Chris & Sharon Hamilton and is based on Oakham’s Pillings Road. Stone troughs, garden planters, wrought iron benches, statues, cast iron urns, cast iron planters, chimney pots, large terracotta pots and all manner of architectural salvage. n Call 01572 720070 or see www.rutlandgardenclassics.co.uk.

2. Claire Langley

CLAIRE LANGLEY ANTIQUES is based in the centre of Stamford and run by antique dealer Claire Langley, who has over 30 years of dealing experience. Antiques from all periods, classic 20th century pieces can sit quite happily alongside period antiques. n Radcliffe Road Stamford PE9 1ED. Call 01780 592 599 or see www.clairelangleyantiques.co.uk.

Claire Langley Antiques.

5. Second to None

NEIL SCHOLES started this eclectic salvage yard and second hand centre back in 1999. A great name to know for furniture ready to upcycle, stone planters and vintage garden decorations as well as vintage/retro items and architectural antiques. n Old Great Road, Stamford Call 07989 133362 or visit www.secondtononestamford.com.

7. Adrian Hill Fine Art

ADRIAN HILL FINE ART first opened in July 2013 and has since opened a new gallery on The Mews adjacent to The George of Stamford to showcase quality and diverse works from private collections and modern British painters. Artists include Lowry and David Hockney. n Call 01780 480800, or see www.adrianhillfineart.com.

Queen Street Gallery.

9. Gladwells Rutland

THE SISTER GALLERY of Gladwell & Patterson on London’s Beauchamp Place, Gladwells Rutland features fine art from names like David Shepherd, Cuneo, Munnings and Seago. Founded by Anthony Fuller and now managed by Cory Fuller on Oakham’s Mill Street. n Mill Street, Oakham LE15 6EA. 01572 756518, gladwellpatterson.com.

Deborah Walker, From The Eye, £3,800 at Adrian Hill Fine Art.

8. Queen Street Gallery

REBECCA IVATT’S Queen Street Gallery in Uppingham opened its doors in May 2022. Rebecca works from the studio and hosts fine art classes too. She’s hoping to host exhibitions of other artists’ work and display sculpture in the future. n Queen Street, Uppingham, LE15 9QR. Call 07788 664779 or see www.queenstreetgallery.co.uk.

Anthony Fuller of Gladwell & Patterson.

10. Goldmark Gallery

SPECIALISING in art, ceramics, and publishing catalogues and insights into featured artists. Goldmark specialising in bringing names like ceramicist Anne Mette Hjortshøj to Uppingham. Established 40 years ago by Mike Goldmark. n Orange Street, Uppingham LE15 9SQ. Call 01572 821424 or see www.goldmarkart.com.

In The Frame: THE EVENT GALLERY’S FRAMING SERVICE

Bespoke framing for your fine art and other memorabilia...

Picture Framer David Ball has always added the perfect finishing touch to artist partner Kay’s artwork, specialising in the fine art framing of her hand-painted work featuring animals from the Lincolnshire countryside. Previously David has been so busy framing Kay’s own work that they’ve been unable to accommodate any external framing work, but with fewer country shows in the diary they’re now able to make their bespoke framing service available to customers with their own paintings, textiles, memorabilia and other pieces that require professional framing. With the ability to accommodate bespoke frame sizes, plus around 80 different mouldings all in stock, and many mounts, David can custom-cut mounts for medals and music memorabilia and seals each piece to prevent any deterioration, as well as using anti-reflective glass to ensure your treasured piece can always be displayed at its best.

n Call 01529 240529 to discuss your bespoke framing requirements or see www.theeventgallery.co.uk