1 How has the market changed in your experience?
We are experiencing challenging and changing times. It’s not about Brexit or the internet but about auctioneers. The coin has flipped: the auctioneers have moved into the dealership role and changed the market. This is causing angst among the trade.
2 What is something that gives you hope for the future?
At the recent LAPADA Art & Antiques
Fair we noticed that far more young people were looking around, which is very encouraging.
That event this year was beautifully put together too, the top exhibition of the year, and is definitely on a par with Masterpiece.
3 Why buy direct from a dealer?
The challenge of buying online is that the buyer is unable to view the object. My late father would say “view it, hold it, touch it, pick it up…” Nothing beats that even today.
4 What is one question people should ask before buying?
People often say ‘I love it, but I don’t have space’. Ascertaining if you have the room is certainly a key question, but I would rather they say ‘I do have the space, let’s talk prices’.
5 Real ale or espresso martini?
Sauvignon blanc!
If you would like to be featured in 5 Questions, please contact francesallitt@antiquestradegazette.com
