Old Masters

With the National Portrait Gallery about to reopen, ATG takes a look at exhibition and auctions on the theme

Art dealers across the UK are unveiling portrait exhibitions to mark the reopening of the National Portrait Gallery (NPG) this month.

A sale of Old Masters, British & European Art at Chorley’s in Gloucestershire on June 27 includes this 17th century English School painting depicting the burning of London Bridge.

A previously unrecorded second version of Lavinia Fontana’s Mannerist portrait of Antonietta Gonsalvus has sold in France for a record €1.25m (£1.1m).

Among a number of works at the latest Old Master, British and European Art sale at Sworders (25% buyer’s premium) sparking keen interest were a couple of contrasting paintings selling well above predictions.

The paintings of Anne Vallayer-Coster (1744-1818), an artist often compared to Chardin whose painting was a major source of inspiration to her, were recognised and well regarded during her lifetime in the 18th century art world.

A summary of news and events from around the trade including an Antwerp dealer's upcoming show focusing on the Flemish artist Cornelis Schut (1597-1655).

This 17th century floral still-life features in the sale of Old Master paintings and drawings to be held by Tajan on June 21.

A previously undocumented painting, bought from an English dealer by a European collector in 1995, shines at Vienna sale.

This work by Henry Fuseli (1741-1825) is a study for the figure of a kneeling figure of Caractacus’ daughter in the artist’s painting 'Caractacus’ speech before Claudius'.

View of the city ahead of the Great Fire was attributed to a Dutch artist who produced several panoramas

Do your forensic investigation before bidding to avoid nasty surprises

Dealers at the Dutch art and antiques fair noticed a welcome trend of more eclectic tastes among younger buyers

Master Drawings New York (MDNY) has a new owner, advisory board and partnership.

Middle market Old Masters, longstanding family ownership, market freshness... what’s not to like?