Yorkshireman Schoon joins as a consultant following more than 20 years with Tennants Auctioneers, in Leyburn, North Yorkshire.
He told ATG: “This is going back to what I really love doing, focusing on Asian art. I can give Duke’s my full expertise.”
He replaces the former head of Duke’s Asian Art department, Andrew Marlborough, who has left to pursue a career in the church.
Schoon added: “Being a consultant gives you and the company flexibility. This role fitted my brief. It is at the other end of the country to where I am based but I am used to travelling and I will continue to travel.”
Duke’s partner Garry Batt said: “Adam has a wonderful knowledge and enthusiasm for his subject, and is very well known and respected in the antiques world. We are confident that he will be an asset to Duke’s.”
It is the second significant appointment for Duke's this year. Richard Gold, one of the best-known regional valuers and auctioneers, joined the firm from Lawrences of Crewkerne.
Roadshow Specialist
Schoon has more than 35 years’ experience as a valuer and has appeared as a specialist on the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow since 1999. He is also a trustee of The Bowes Museum in County Durham and was involved in a recent modernisation of the museum’s European and Oriental ceramics gallery.
Schoon has a particular passion for Chinese and Japanese art as well as Himalayan arts of Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan and India. He has been a member of the Oriental Ceramic Society of London for more than 25 years.
Duke's next Asian sale is on November 18 and Duke's is accepting consignments until October 10.
Schoon said he will also work as a general valuer when needed by Duke’s.
