Mixed Lot

Daniel and I recently cleared a house in which we found an unopened bottle of gin from the 1960's.  That may not excite many people but it excited us because it wasn't the standard 40% proof but an eye-watering 70%  It was tempting to twist the top there and then but, like the professionals we are, we determined to put it aside for our annual Christmas party - and that was yesterday.  This morning, I feel...rough.
Actually, yesterday was not just a celebration but the last antique fair and the last auction of the year.  I think we pulled it off, just about.  It was interesting (although limiting) to combine the auction with the fair - with both advantages and disadvantages in abundance.  I suspect we'll incorporate some of those changes into 2011 but that's not for now.  For now I'll concentrate on drinking the strong cup of coffee that Beth has just made for me.
One of our more interesting lots from yesterday was a hand finished limited edition John Myatt print - which didn't sell, unfortunately.  John Myatt (born 1945) is a British artist and convicted forger who, along with John Drewe, perpetrated what has been described as "the biggest art fraud of the 20th Century" producing and selling copies of works by Masters such as Chagall and Matisse as originals through auction houses including Christie's, Phillips, and Sotheby's.  He was convicted of fraud in 1999 and sentenced to one year in prison (though serving just four months).  Following his release, Myatt became a collectable artist in his own right with his 'original fakes' selling for upward of £45,000  His hand-finished and signed limited edition prints are highly prized too - ours was a Monet "Morning on the Seine II" (pictured) with a reserve of £2,000.  Our bid yesterday was short at £1,800 - most frustrating!  We'll now look for a private buyer.
2010 has been a mixed year for Barnes Auctioneers.  There have been some enormous setbacks, not least the robbery in October that could well have sunk us - although unlike the Titanic we managed to limp back to port.  The economic climate too has been depressed but again, I think we have weathered the storm.  I am already aware of some massive hurdles to clear in 2011 and no doubt we'll clip a couple but then that's what we are about - taking on the biggest challenges and managing to succeed when it most looks like we're going to fall.  Our business is a drama but that's how I like it.  It doesn't suit everyone - bit part players come and go - but we've never set out to be mainstream.  Just because we do it with a glass of gin & tonic in one hand and a packet of peanuts in the other doesn't mean we don't do it with aplomb.  Even our bitterest rivals concede that we have a little something...
I'd like to make a couple of predictions for 2011 but before I do I'd just like to take this opportunity to thank my team for all of their support this year.  They have been magnificent throughout and knowing that they are with me for 2011 makes those challenges seem that bit easier.  I'd like to thank our customers too and everyone connected with The Cloisters Fair - our bread and butter for sure.  I would like to thank my family and friends for their support.  Most of all I would like to thank Beth - she's backed the right horse but sometimes it's difficult to see the winning post with so much going on.  Of course, I may well only be fit for the glue factory by the time the race is finished.  But the race will be won - if this business were World War 2 it would be 1940 but at least we know we are the British...
So - ten predictions (some work related and some not) for 2011
1) Barnes Auctioneers will double in turnover
2) One of the 'Big Three' auction houses in Norfolk will shut down
3) A new auction house will open for business in Norwich
4) The Coalition Government will fall resulting in another General Election
5) A previously unknown Norwich School painting will be discovered in an attic somewhere
6) Margaret Thatcher will receive a State Funeral (mixed emotions about that one)
7) Two of my closest friends in the antique business will get married
8) A holiday for Beth and I - somewhere hot and romantic
9) A change of location - into the city centre for our office and for our home
10) An unexpected ally will reinforce our Eastern border

To all of you (well, not to those of you I don't like - just those of you I do) - have a Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year - and thank you for your friendship and support in 2010.

Catalogue for tomorrow

Our next auction will take place at St Andrew's Hall in Norwich tomorrow (Wednesday 22nd December) at 11am. A catalogue will be available in the sale room but will not be posted on this site because of technical difficulties.

Mixed Lot

Our annual Christmas party will take place this year at St Andrew's Hall on Wednesday, 22nd December at 10am (alongside The Cloisters Fair and General Auction - it's a must come-a-long kinda threesome so don't miss it).  The event is an established tradition but there is another, equally important, that my colleagues seem only too willing to maintain and that is to start the 'unofficial' party several days in advance...
To report on the events of yesterday may only serve to reinforce long-held public opinion that antique dealers are miscreant sponges of alcohol.  That would, of course, be a misrepresentation because we couldn't make any money at all if we lived our lives like that.  We do like to enjoy ourselves though - and why not?  A customer of mine recently suggested that this blog stick to 'facts, facts, and more facts dear boy!' but then what would be the point of that?  Our lives are surely enriched by that in life which is ornamental, not by that which is functional?  It may be the case that we would have taken more money had we been sober yesterday but my life is enriched by the people I work alongside, not by profit and loss.  Money really means nothing to me.  That surely exposes one myth about antique dealers? 
That said, yesterday was a very good days trading - in more ways than one.  It started badly, with some stallholder cancellations (because of the snow) and with the news that The Crypt cafe is to close permanently on Christmas Eve as part of Norwich City Council's cost-cutting measures (more on that in the New Year because the implications for us are enormous).  However, a few sales throughout the day topped up with a cheque from Keys Auctioneers (yes, of course we use other auction houses from time to time) and I was able to assure Beth that we can afford a turkey at Christmas and not just the chicken thigh we were looking to divide between the four of us!
Sunday is usually a day off - but not today.  Today is preparing for Monday when we will do it all again - though perhaps with a little less rum...

FAIR UPDATE

We can confirm that The Cloisters Fair will take place at St Andrew's Hall in Norwich today (Saturday, 18th) as planned (despite the snow - it's really not that bad!) 8am-6pm.

First Look at Lots for Christmas Auction

Here is a first look at some of the lots we have on offer at our Christmas Auction, which will take place at St Andrew's Hall in Norwich on Wednesday, 22nd December at 11am
LOT 50 - Gents Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust watch with stainless steel strap Est 800-1200
LOT 94 - Emerald (one stone est 2.7cts) & brilliant cut diamond (two stones est approx 1ct) three stone ring, 18ct white & yellow gold mounted, Sheffield Hallmark, Size 'N', with insurance valuation (£4250.00) Est 1800-2000
LOT 190 - Emerald (one stone est 1.1cts) and brilliant cut diamond (14 stones est 0.42cts) set border rectangular cluster ring in the Art Deco style, 18ct white & yellow gold mounted, London Hallmark, Size 'N', with insurance valuation (£2850.00) Est 1200-1500
LOT 250 - Large solid silver (800) Italian dish Est 200-300

News Update

Our Christmas Auction will be held at St Andrew's Hall in Norwich on Wednesday, 22nd December at 11am.  Please do note the departure from our regular sale date and time.  We are accepting entries at St Andrew's Hall on Saturday, 18th/Monday, 20th/Tuesday, 21st December between 8am and 4pm.  Another break from our normal pratice is that we will be paying vendors out in cash on the Wednesday (until 5pm) to ensure that people receive their money in time for Christmas.  All will be back to normal from January...

The Cloisters Fair will be held over Christmas on the following dates:
Sat, 18th Dec - Christmas at The Cloisters Fair (8am-6pm)
Mon, 20th Dec - Christmas at The Cloisters Fair (8am-6pm)
Tues, 21st Dec - Christmas at The Cloisters Fair (8am-6pm)
Wed, 22nd Dec - Christmas at The Cloisters Fair (8am-6pm)

HOT OFF THE PRESS - we can confirm that stall prices for The Cloisters Fair will remain fixed at £15 (single) £24 (double) for 2011.

Mixed Lot

There is one Golden Rule in the antique game that should always be observed and that is 'Don't ever pay the asking price for anything'.  The Art of Negotiation is a skill that must be honed to perfection if you are to succeed in our profession.  All antique dealers expect to discount and price accordingly.  It is, however, an Art that should be respected and not abused as it was yesterday at The Cloisters Fair.
'It's not complete.  If it was complete, I would give you fifty quid for it.  But it's not complete.'
These words were uttered by a skinny Scottish skate whose teeth had not been cleaned in thirty years.  He needed a bath like I needed the sale but if truth be told he was actually just interrupting my enjoyment of a cup of asparagus soup from Amaretto.  He was fingering a Victorian silver parasol handle that I had acquired that very morning from Tall Tony.  It's beautifully decorated in the Art Nouveau style and I wanted £50 for it.  Although, he was correct in pointing out that there was no parasol to accompany the handle, he was incorrect in his assertion that this fact would make any difference to its value.  But it was his attitude that hardened the price. 
'I'll give you a tenner for it.  It's not worth more than that to me' he said, before tossing it back into my display cabinet with disregard.
Back in the day there was always a 10% rule - to trade buyers at least.  To Scottish tossers (of parasol handles) who expect something for nothing, the available discount is...silence.
'I said I'll give you a tenner for it.'
Silence.
'What is your best price then?'
Silence.
'Mate?'
Silence.
My demeanour eventually penetrated his little bony head and he wandered off to do whatever it is that little annoying Scottish people do.
It's simple to negotiate a little bit off - just respect the person you are dealing with and be enthusiastic about what you want to buy 'I really love this beautiful parasol handle - I don't suppose there is any chance you could do it for £45?' is all he needed to say.  But he didn't.
The Cloisters Fair was very busy yesterday which was to be expected as we head (rapidly it seems) toward Christmas.  We had a full house too with space for dealers at a premium.  With so many friends in one place it's difficult sometimes to concentrate on the job in hand (we are there to sell after all).  To say we laughed throughout the day would be an understatement.  We laughed until the medieval timbers laughed with us before heading back to our favourite pub, The Doghouse, at the end of trading. 
Oh the tales and the stories and the events and the gossip and the life and the love and the death of it all.  It's all there and I wish that I was Oscar Wilde or Shakespeare so that I could find the words to portray what it is that makes The Cloisters Fair so special.  It's a hive of activity and I never tire of it.  It's our front parlour.  It's our Rovers Return.  It's our soap opera.  But of all the stories of late, one (true) story stands out.
Often the best tales are never told (many of my mine are between God and me and I'll have that conversation with Him one day no doubt) and this was very nearly another for the vault.  But, with the permission of the dealer agreed, I'll open the curtain momentarily and allow you a glimpse into our secret world.
'I think it's a railway watch'
The opening lines in this particular episode were spoken by my good friend and colleague, Daniel.  He was inspecting an old pocket watch that had been entered into our auction for sale. 
I glanced at it and saw it for what it was - an old pocket watch with a damaged enamel dial.  We see hundreds of pocket watches come through our saleroom and they are all the same - worthless.  Of course, there are always exceptions - we did sell an incredible Russian silver and blue enamel pocket watch recently - but this didn't look like one.  It was tired and dirty and without a hope in Hell of selling at the ambitious £40 reserve that had been placed upon it.  I looked at it.  Daniel looked at it.  Every single dealer and collector that came to our sale looked at it.  No one bought it and we offered it for sale privately at a reduced price of £25.  At that price it was still, in my opinion, rich.  The dealer who bought it from us, a friend of mine, went away happy nevertheless. 
A few days later, he phoned me.  Normally, when a dealer calls post-sale it is to negotiate a refund for some reason or other which is why we like the phrase 'sold as seen'.  Not on this occasion, however.
'Just between you and me, Gary...'
The pocket watch had been sold on for £600!  That may seem like a fantastic profit for the dealer, and of course it is (and he did buy me a cup of tea with some of the proceeds) but more than anything it represents a moment of ecstasy for the collector who bought it because he isn't interested in pocket watches.  He is interested in memorabilia related to the Zulu War of 1879. 
The pocket watch was inscribed on the back 'Presented by Col. Hutton to Private John Williams 1879'.
Private John Williams (pictured) was awarded the Victoria Cross for his part in the defence of Rorke's Drift on the 22nd/23rd January 1879.  The battle was featured on screen in the film 'Zulu' starring Stanley Baker and Michael Caine and is famous as one of the greatest ever British victories against overwhelming odds.  Private Williams was awarded the VC for fending off Zulu warriors attacking the hospital and engineering an escape for the injured by breaking through walls with his bayonet.  He saved many lives and did so without ammunition or thought for his own safety.  The pocket watch that belonged to a man like Private John Williams VC is highly desirable. 
'How did we miss that one, Gary?' asked Daniel in The Doghouse last night.
'Error, Daniel'
'Error, Gary'
'Another pint, Daniel?'
Actually, the credit for this has to go to the man that took the trouble to research the inscription on the back of the watch.  There is a belief amongst the public that antique dealers make money easily but that is not the case. This antique dealer was meticulous and determined in his research and earned his money thoroughly and honestly.  He deserved his profit.
What gems will you be able to find in our next auction?  Well, why not come along and see for yourself - our Christmas sale has been moved to Wednesday, 22nd December at 11am and will run alongside The Cloisters Fair and our Christmas party.  It's going to be a great finale to our year and something that you simply cannot afford to miss!

Mixed Lot

Selling via eBay is an important aspect of my working life but the whole process of packing and posting valuables across the world is at best stressful.  It's stressful because stupid Americans return antique items with a note explaining 'this item is not in as good a condition as it might be.'
I always respond 'That's because it's 150 years old - what will you look like in one hundred years time?'
'Can I have another one?'
'No, it's Victorian.  It's unique.'
'In that case I'll apply for a PayPal refund and leave you negative feedback anyway.'
Nothing brings out the need to kill in me more than someone from the other side of The Pond expecting that I fall on my sword just because they have a negative feedback advantage over me.  I want to cross the Atlantic and track them down.  I want to put their fat head into a mangle and turn the cogs slowly.  I want to enslave them and sell them as shark bait to Egyptian fishermen. 
But in truth my temper is already primed by something much closer to home - the Post Office.  Not that there are many Post Offices left. There is one at Castle Mall in Norwich.  You can't miss it - just take a packed lunch and join the queue at St Stephen's.  When you get to the front of the queue you will discover just why it has taken so long to serve you.
'Hello, my name is Robert and I am your customer service assistant for today.  How may I help you?'
'I need to send a couple of parcels to some dumb Americans'.
'Well, I can assist you with that sir.  Tell me, do you need house contents insurance?'
'No'
'Do you need car insurance?'
'No'
'Do you need life assurance?'
'No, but you might soon need it...'
'Can I explain about the benefits our excellent travel insurance policy?'
'For God's sake man!'
I want to cross the counter and slap him down. I want to put his fat head into a mangle and turn the cogs slowly. I want to enslave him and sell him as shark bait to Egyptian fishermen...
Maybe I have an anger problem?
The great thing about selling at an antique fair is that the customer can see and handle whatever it is that has caught their eye and then pay in cash.  Forget parcel tape, brown paper, and customs labels - a little bit of bubblewrap and an old carrier bag and both buyer and seller part company in good spirits.  No fees.  No returns.  No hassle.
That said, I have had some incredible sales online, that I could never have anticipated at an antique fair.  There is certainly an argument to be made for concentrating on selling online only.  I don't subscribe to that view because a savvy dealer selects the best marketplace for what s/he is selling.  For example, collectable books sell well on Amazon but an antiquarian book on the churches of Norwich may well be best tried at The Cloisters. 
The other reason for not simply selling via the internet is that it divorces you from life.  Life is to be found at antique fairs, and auctions, and in the pub.  An antique dealer who sells on the internet alone is not an antique dealer - they are someone who sells antiques online.  Balance in life is everything and selling on eBay, Amazon, et al is probably best described as a necessary evil.  One that cannot be ignored.  But give me people, real people, and real life each and every time.
Rant over - I have to go to the Post Office (top tip - try the one in Roys' store on Magdalen Street) - wish me luck!

Mixed Lot

Our decision to appoint a new Auction Rooms Manager has caused quite a stir.  Of course, I had anticipated some interest but not to the extent that my email inbox is crammed full of attached Curriculum Vitaes from as far away as Nevada.  And we haven't even advertised the position yet - the recruitment process will begin in February 2011.
Back to this week and we have taken the decision, for a variety of reasons (not least the weather and sickness in camp), to push Thursday's auction back to the 16th December.  I do hope that this doesn't inconvenience anyone too much (and that the message gets through to everyone). It's not a decision that has been taken lightly.  There will not be a second auction this month in any event because of the Christmas holidays.  From January 2011 we will be back to our usual pattern of every second and fourth Thursday.
The Cloisters Fair will stall this Wednesday (8th) and Saturday (11th) at St Andrew's Hall in Norwich and we are expecting our customers to throw off the shackles of recession and spend spend spend.  Well, actually, if we take a shilling or two and can afford a chicken thigh for Christmas dinner we will be happy.  If you would like to stall on Wednesday you are too late.  If you would like to stall on Saturday we have space.  Just call us on 01603 304337 or 07810 646711 to book an 8ft table.
The Cloisters Fair will stall for the final time this year on the 15th December - or will it?  We have had some interest in running the antique fair on Wednesday, 29th December.  To be honest, that post-Christmas/pre-New Year period is probably a good time to sell as families (bored with watching repeats on telly) look to leave the house and actually do something more interesting instead.  We would appreciate your comments on this - particularly if you would be prepared to stall.  In any case, The Cloisters Fair will be back on Wednesday, 5th January 2011. 
Inbetween those dates we have our Christmas at The Cloisters Fair - our third year.  This will run every day from Saturday 18th until Wednesday 22nd December (excluding Sunday). We still have space available for this event if you would like to stall on all or some of the days.  Please note that we are no longer able to host on Sundays because of increased staffing costs necessary to open the Hall.
So the calendar looks like this:

Wed, 8th Dec - The Cloisters Fair (8am-3pm)
Sat, 11th Dec - The Cloisters Fair (8am-4pm)
Wed, 15th Dec - The Cloisters Fair (8am-3pm)
Thurs, 16th Dec - General Auction incl antiques (2pm, viewing from midday)
Sat, 18th Dec - Christmas at The Cloisters Fair (8am-6pm)
Mon, 20th Dec - Christmas at The Cloisters Fair (8am-6pm)
Tues, 21st Dec - Christmas at The Cloisters Fair (8am-6pm)
Wed, 22nd Dec - Christmas at The Cloisters Fair (8am-6pm)
Wed, 29th Dec - tbc

Just a final note. If you are interested in antiques and making a full or part-time living out of it (lots of people do btw) - then do get in touch.  We offer packages for people looking to change direction and can help you to start your own business in 2011.

Mixed Lot

Barnes Auctioneers is already recognised as 'one of the most dynamic salerooms in the country' (ATC) but it's not just about making headlines across the world.  It was an achievement for us to feature in the New York Times following the sale of Bob Dylan's harmonica.  It was amazing to discover an original sketch by John Crome in a Norwich attic.  But these are just some of the highlights and we know that, however fancy the architecture, the finest buildings are always reliant on a solid foundation.  The moment we are entrusted with a job, be that a valuation or a house clearance or the sale of an item, we know that our task is to exceed our customer's expectations.  Mostly that is about getting the basics right.  We put as much effort into selling an old chair as we do a beautiful diamond ring.  Of course, we do enjoy the headlines when they come along!

It's worth reviewing what we do, because it puts everything into perspective:
1) We host two General Auctions including Antiques and Valuables every month
2) We host weekly (sometimes twice weekly) antique fairs in central Norwich
3) We manage house clearances and the disposal of effects for Probate purposes
4) We trade online and at other venues across the country (mostly London)

WHY YOU SHOULD CHOOSE TO WORK WITH US:
1) We are a family-run business with thirty years experience in the trade.
2) We are friendly and offer a bespoke service designed to exceed your expectations.
3) We are cost-effective, offering free advice and information allied to consistently low fees.
4) We are based in Norwich, unlike many of our competitors
5) We are professional and honest.
6) We pay vendors in cash

CONTACT US on 01603 304337 or 07810 646711
or email us barnesauctioneers@btinternet.com if you:
a) Are interested in buying or selling at auction.
b) Are responsible for the management of an estate or the disposal of effects from a property.
c) Would like to trade at an antique fair in central Norwich.
d) Would like some free advice about your antiques and valuables.
e) Would be interested in joining our mailing list.

Mixed Lot

It's a bit chilly outside and the weather reflects a tough economic climate.  The snow and icy conditions add more pressure to the business of making money too as people hunker down at home with supplies of corned-beef and candles (in anticipation of a power cut).  Cars remain on the side of the road, covered in a foot of snow, and everything is still.  Not ideal when you want to sell them a Coalport trio...
With this in mind, I feared the worst for The Cloisters Fair on Saturday morning as I looked out across the river and witnessed the coming of the next Ice Age.  Snow and antique fairs do not mix.  Stallholders cancel (ten did) and customers stay at home (and eat their corned-beef sandwiches).  Add to the mix a stonking hangover (no regrets though - cracking boys night out on the Friday) and prospects were bleak.  I was tempted to shut up shop and cancel the whole thing but then I remembered the phrase 'the show MUST go on'. 
Seven.  That's how many stallholders (myself included) entered into the Dunkirk Spirit on Saturday at The Cloisters Fair.  The Cloisters Fair is a Norwich institutuion.  It's been running since the early 1970's under different organisers.  It stalls every wednesday and (usually) on two saturdays a month.  It's the epicentre of our trading and a place where people meet and work and play.  It's usually full of life but at 7.30am on Saturday morning it was very, very quiet.  'Is it just the two of us, Gary?' asked Brenda as she shivered in the snow before continuing 'Do you think they will let us in (to St Andrew's Hall, where the fair takes place) only this snow affects my arthritis'.
Before long we were joined by Jenny.  Then Gillian.  Like the brave (or foolhardy) signing up with the sheriff to protect the town against marauding bands of commanche, they came.  One by one.  Linda next.  Then the Other Linda.  And finally, Julia.  Then we were seven, the Magnificent Seven.
Filling a hall with just seven stallholders is a challenge (although our record is four stallholders) but we managed it (just).  There were one or two that swayed early on as the snow continued to fall and the customers continued to stay away.  But you have to hold the line even when you can see that defeat is inevitable.  We are British after all.  So we did (hold the line) and in adversity we prevailed.  One by one we started to take some money.  It's a strange truism that things often go right when expected to go wrong.  Although I spent most of the day slumped in a corner, I did manage to sell enough that my stall(s) looked quite empty!  At the end of the day, one of the girls rushed up to me and (grasping me with both hands) smiled 'I've had my best day ever, thank you'.  Contrary to popular opinion, antique dealers are not all rich - some of us are content just to make an honest living and that's been difficult lately.  It felt good to know that she was going home having had a good day.   There certainly were no grumbles as I collected the rents!
Of course, Sod's Law dictates that next Wednesday we have more antique dealers than stalls to put them on.  The weather, if it continues to snow, may knock that conundrum out cold though.  Whatever the scenario, The Cloisters Fair will stand.  It will always stand.
Sunday was my last day of rest for a while and I spent it with a mate of mine who, despite being intelligent, is a Norwich City supporter.  We went to The Doghouse to watch the local derby.  Maybe it's a sign of the times that the pub was virtually empty.  I drank beer, ate crisps, and watched my team capitulate.  He'll have bragging rights now (until next time) - it's not easy, living in Norwich and supporting Ipswich Town. 
This week, as well as The Cloisters Fair on Wednesday, we will be preparing for our next auction, which takes place on Thursday, 9th December.  We are hoping to finish the year off in some style with our best sale yet.  Do call us on 01603 304337 or 07810 646711 if you would like to enter something or if you just want some free advice and information.  We don't bite...

Mixed Lot

It's healthy to have a vice or two and mine are well documented.  Yesterday, I realised that I have another - buying and selling.  Buying and selling (primarily antiques in my case) is similar to gambling.  It's similar in that you cannot always be sure that your financial outlay will return a profit.  There are, as always, some exceptions such as in the buying and selling of scrap gold or silver (buying at X to sell at Y).  Buying antiques to sell generally, however, involves an element of risk.  The dealer asks 'What can I sell that on for?' and then negotiates to buy in the hope that they will achieve a profitable margin.  Sometimes that judgement is sound and sometimes it's not.  But, and this is my point - that judgement call is addictive.  It's a vice.  When I buy something for £50 and sell it for £100 I feel, well I feel, I actually feel overwhelmed with my own brilliance.  Then I fall back down to earth, for example at yesterday's sale when an lot of mine sold for just £28 when I had originally bought it for £40...
Not that yesterday's sale was a disappointment - far from it.  It was an excellent sale with some great prices achieved on our 'cornerstone' lots.  The Chester hallmarked silver tray, for example, selling for £528 ABP.  The Arts & Crafts dish for £198 ABP.  We had little jewellery in this time round - we're saving that up for our special Christmas sale on Thursday, 9th December.  It was the silver that did it for us yesterday.
A few months ago we announced our intention to move from one sale a month to two.  Despite some initial reservations, we have managed to prove that to be the right strategy.  Our ambition is to move to a weekly sale wef April 2011.  We have some big decisions to make, not least whether or not St Andrew's Hall is the right venue for our auction rooms.  We also have to determine whether or not a Thursday is right for us.  It has been suggested that a Tuesday may be better.  We really would appreciate your views on both of these issues (and anything else that you feel relevant) - just email us at barnesauctioneers@btinternet.com
I have made two decisions already.  The first is that Barnes Auctioneers will remain a solely family concern and that we have abandoned any idea of partnership with another saleroom or individual.  It is no secret that we entered into quite detailed discussions with two potential investors some months ago and that they have been ongoing.  Ultimately, and inevitably, though we would need to compromise on our path and I cannot do that.  I cannot leave the path I am on because in the far distance I can see something.  I saw it back in 2008 when we held our first sale in twenty years.  I know that we must reach that point and that at that point we will realise our ambition together as our own little Band of Brothers and, in any case, as our greatest King once said 'The fewer men, the greater share of honour'.  We English didn't need the Scots at Agincourt...
The second decision I have made is to let go of Barnes Auctioneers.  What I mean to say is to let go of managing every aspect of the business and concentrate of what I do best.  If we are to grow it is critical that we have the best people in key positions.  In particular we need a full-time auction rooms manager and it is my hope that we will achieve that by April 2011.  That will enable me to put greater energy into the vision and strategy side of the business.  We already have an amazing team of people and we will grow together in our own unique style.
Naturally, as is our practice, we celebrated after the sale yesterday.  Most of us, along with a couple of friends, went on to Delaney's for a shandy or three.  We raised a glass and the anecdotes and the story-telling and the raucous laughter began and went on and on into the evening.  I guess the forthcoming advert will need to say 'WANTED - Auction Rooms Manager - preferably with a sense of humour'

Public Catalogue for 25th November 2010

Our next sale takes place tomorrow at St Andrew's Hall in Norwich at 2pm (public viewing from midday) - catalogue below:

General Auction 25th November 2010

Lot Description Estimate

1 Writing bureau incl contents 30-40

2 Vintage standard lamp (decorative item only - not tested) 30-40

3 Large mirror 10-20

4 Copper ice bucket 10-20

5 Pair of Alberto Lena figures 20-30

6 19th Century bowl A/F 10-20

7 Thorens musical beerstein 10-20

8 Pair of brass wall bracket stands 20-30

9 Vintage boot stretcher 8-12

10 Nest of three tables 8-12

11 Box of mixed records 10-20

12 Pair of original Victorian watercolours 30-40

13 Vintage map of the British Isles 20-30

14 Mixed lot of costume jewellery and a pocket watch* 10-20

15 Hallmarked silver fork* 30-40

16 Two small ceramic cream jugs* 10-20

17 Beswick figure of a man* 10-20

18 Mixed bank notes and coins* 10-20

19 Turkey platter 4-8

20 Pewter Quart tankard 8-12

21 Vintage umbrella 4-8

22 Silver-plated egg-cup stand 8-12

23 Vintage bottle of Chevalier champagne 20-30

24 Glass vase 10-20

25 Album of cigarette cards 30-40

26 Four Shannon Pottery storage jars 8-12

27 Old chamber pot 4-8

28 Vintage set of dominoes 4-8

29 Gentleman's travel set and a travel writing set 8-12

30 Large quantity of ceramics incl blue & white, Willow Pattern, etc 30-40

31 Theodolite 8-12

32 Coral & seashell decorative ornament 12-18

33 Vintage case 4-8

34 Vintage silver-plated picture frame 8-12

35 Porcelain group figurine of chess players 10-20

36 Mixed lot 10-20

37 Pair of silver teaspoons* 8-12

38 Pair of opera glasses* 8-12

39 Still life oil on board 10-20

40 Vintage mantle clock and barometer 30-40

41 Three walking sticks 4-8

42 Pye Radio 30-40

43 Plated service (3) 20-30

44 Hand painted pug tin 30-40

45 Mixed lot of shipping plated ware 30-40

46 Mixed lot incl teaspoons/pens etc 10-20

47 Oriental coffee set 10-20

48 Two Gothic style upholstered chairs 80-120

49 Mixed lot incl draylon curtains 8-12

50 Mixed lot incl biscuit barrel 4-8

51 Vintage upholstered chair 10-20

52 Pair of oval pictures 8-12

53 Silver-plated service (4) 10-20

54 KT ceramic coffee set 10-20

55 1950's picnic set 10-20

56 Oval mirror 10-20

57 Mixed lot incl antique clock pendulum weights 10-20

58 Set of step ladders 10-20

59 Vintage case 10-20

60 Bed warming pan 10-20

61 RAF jacket 10-20

62 Pair of decorative plates 8-12

63 Two belts 8-12

64 Lot of Essex County Magazines 8-12

65 Ornate wall mirror 10-20

66 Set of six Susie Cooper plates 20-30

67 Mixed lot of stamps incl GB/Commonwealth etc 20-30

68 Glass decanter 4-8

69 Still life oil on board 10-20

70 Mixed lot of vintage bags and a collar 10-20

71 Mixed lot of costume jewellery* 10-20

72 Mixed lot incl hallmarked silver and silver-plated items (8)* 60-80

73 Five napkin rings* 8-12

74 Mixed lot incl small copper dish, hallmarked silver sugar nips, haemetite

necklace* 8-12

75 Vintage plant stand (pictured)10-20

76 Vintage set of fish knives & forks 8-12

77 Vintage doll 8-12

78 Franklin Mint Patricia figure 10-20

79 Four 'Lochs of Scotland' bowls 10-20

80 Mixed lot of plates 8-12

81 Sylvac Christmas holly dish 8-12

82 Mixed lot 10-20

83 Vintage trouser press 8-12

84 Floral display - framed oil on canvas 20-30

85 Mixed lot of commemorative mugs 10-20

86 Vintage ladies watch* 10-20

87 Pair of Coalport cup & saucers 10-20

88 Pair of glass scents A/F 4-8

89 Hip flask 4-8

90 Watercolour of Fritton Lake 10-20

91 Corgi Massey-Ferguson Tractor in box 8-12

92 Lace tablecloth & 3-piece embroidered dressing table set 8-12

93 Old mantle clock 20-30

94 Mixed lot of costume jewellery incl cameo brooch* 10-20

95 Mixed lot of coinage* 10-20

96 Royal Doulton loving cup (Margaret Thatcher) 8-12

97 Still life oil on board 10-20

98 Mixed lot of copper & brass 8-12

99 Silver plated cake-stand (Wood & Sons) 10-20

100 1789 map of Norwich by Anthony Hochstetter 80-120

101 Muriel Dawson fine art print 30-40

102 Gentleman's dressing set 20-30

103 Pair of antique wall lights 40-60

104 Large mirror 10-20

105 Floral vase 10-20

106 Silver-plated circular tray 10-20

107 980 silver pendant with chain* 8-12

108 Mixed lot of costume jewellery* 10-20

109 9ct white gold amethyst & diamond ring* 60-80

110 9ct gold white sapphire eternity ring* 30-40

111 Mixed lot 8-12

112 Victorian umbrella 10-20

113 Ornate circular mirror 10-20

114 Hall table 10-20

115 Mixed lot of tea and cigarette cards 10-20

116 Silver gravy boat* 20-30

117 One silver-plated and one pewter tankard 8-12

118 Meat platter 4-8

119 Mixed of lot of Meakin ware incl two tureens and a meat platter 10-20

120 Vintage sewing box incl contents 30-40

121 Mixed lot of ceramics incl Sylvan musical pottery mug 10-20

122 Two evening bags 4-8

123 Mixed lot 8-12

124 Mixed lot of cuddly toys 8-12

125 Victorian plant stand 80-120

126 Vintage Chinese basket 30-40

127 Chad Valley wooden jigsaw & a print of Newmarket Races 10-20

128 Two Spode collectors equestrian plates 10-20

129 Mixed lot of Essex related items incl prints, map, ephemera, books, etc 40-60

130 Silver-topped glass bottle 8-12

131 Lot of mixed glass 10-20

132 Set of ladders 10-20

133 Ornate wall mirror 10-20

134 Mixed lot of vintage lace & linen 10-20

135 Silver pepper* 10-20

136 Pair of Victorian scent bottles as lamps* 80-120

137 Three boxed Matchbox cars* 18-25

138 Mixed lot of costume jewellery* 8-12

139 Ceramic hanging ornament 8-12

140 Mixed lot of crystal glass incl decanter 10-20

141 Mixed lot of pictures 10-20

142 Hardly used 120 Bass piano-accordion (pictured) 140-180

143 Mixed lot 10-20

144 Small antique wine table 40-60

145 Bronte Christmas Past - Susan Ridyard print 8-12

146 Vintage boxed set of spoons 8-12

147 Tub containing large quantity of military and other photographs 20-30

148 Vintage Burroughs adding machine 10-20

149 Child's cased violin 20-30

150 Plaster bust of a maiden 180-240

151 Mixed lot of watches* 10-20

152 Victorian mother of pearl needlecase* 8-12

153 Mixed lot of cutlery incl silver* 10-20

154 Pair of Susie Cooper dishes* 10-20

155 Black stand for lights 8-12

156 Box of various size picture lights 10-20

157 Pair of signed Ltd Ed Peter Solly prints - Pulls Ferry/Norfolk Poppytime 30-40

158 Watercolour by M Lewis 20-30

159 Framed photograph of Mousehold Heath - Nicholas Smith 10-20

160 Box of dolls 8-12

161 Mixed lot of ceramics incl Clarice Cliff bowl 20-30

162 Dresden plate 10-20

163 Chef's knife box 4-8

164 Box of lamp shades 4-8

165 Lof of pretty rings 10-20

166 Hallmarked silver tray* 40-60

167 Louis Phillipe I coin* 12-18

168 Silver pendant* 8-12

169 9ct gold citrine & diamond ring* 30-40

170 Baltic amber & silver bracelet* 20-30

171 9ct gold Vertex ladies watch* 20-30

172 Silver salt scoop* 8-12

173 Pair of WW1 medals - 19573 SJT P Marshall - Qeen's R* 40-60

174 Pair of WW1 medals - 17850 Pte E Marshall - Norfolk Regt * 40-60

175 Sewing box with contents 10-20

176 Set of steak knives & forks 8-12

177 Mixed lot of evening bags/purses etc 20-30

178 Pair of 1920's glass candleholders 4-8

179 Mixed lot incl glass and ceramics 4-8

180 1950's eiderdown 10-20

181 Set of silver-plated butter-knives and a set of cocktail forks 10-20

182 Vintage case 12-18

183 Portrait of Mrs William Gibson of Kent - J Swale 30-40

184 Portrait of Mr William Gibson of Kent - J Swale 30-40

185 Print and a book on St Andrew's Hall 10-20

186 Vintage tray 4-8

187 1970's picture of a boat 4-8

188 9ct gold bracelet decorated with lions* (pictured) 200-300

189 Silver-plated Yeoman's sweet tray* 10-20

190 Victorian glass & ormolu watch display case* 80-120

191 Pocket watch and chain* 10-20

192 Mixed lot of buttons etc* 8-12

193 Vintage Services gents wristwatch* 20-30

194 Selection of seven small silver items* 20-30

195 Three-piece hallmarked silver service* 300-400

196 Hallmarked silver jug* 40-60

197 9ct gold sapphire ring* 40-60

198 Selection of hallmarked silver and silver-plated items (8)* 80-120

199 18ct gold diamond & sapphire 'Princess Diana' ring* 300-400

200 Cottages at Sunset - oil on canvas landscape by Percy Lionel, signed & dated 1904 150-180

201 Mixed lot 8-12

202 Two leather chairs 30-40

203 Set of place mats and a set of coasters 4-8

204 Set of old The Graphic magazines 8-12

205 Three wise monkeys 8-12

206 Ornate brass charger 8-12

207 Mirror 8-12

208 Two umbrellas and a walking stick 8-12

209 Vintage chair 10-20

210 Mixed lot of Roman bricks from Wanstead Park 20-30

211 Mixed lot 8-12

212 Fishing rods 8-12

213 Vintage lamp 4-8

214 1974 IWC gents wristwatch* 800-1200

215 Silver gilt christening spoon (import London 1927)* 40-60

216 Vintage brooch* 8-12

217 Pair of champagne goblets (Sheffield 1895)* 120-180

218 18ct gold diamond (0.36ct) & emerald (1.1ct) ring* 800-1000

219 Hamilton & Inches 9ct gold gold themed buttons in original case* 200-300

220 Pair of Victorian hallmarked silver tongs* 60-80

221 Silver cream jug* 20-30

222 18ct gold Victorian French hardstone cameo brooch/pendant* 300-400

223 Signed pencil drawing - Henry Bright* (pictured) 80-120

224 Hallmarked silver Arts & Crafts dish, London 1907, George Jackson & David

Fullerton* 60-80

225 Stunning hallmarked silver tray approx 1.15Kg Chester 1937, Blanckensee* 300-400

* Indicates in or near cabinets

Sneak Preview (2)

Our next Barnes Auction including Antiques & Collectables will take place at St Andrew's Hall in Norwich on Thursday, 25th November 2010 at 2pm (public viewing from midday). A full catalogue will be available on this website from Thursday morning - but do keep checking back as we add sneak previews to tempt you...
LOT 220 - Pair of Victorian hallmarked silver tongs Est 60-80
LOT 40 - Vintage mantle clock and barometer Est 30-40
LOT 224 - Hallmarked silver Arts & Crafts dish, London 1907, George Jackson & David Fullerton Est 60-80
LOT 225 - Stunning hallmarked silver tray approx 1.15Kg Chester, 1937, Blanckensee Est 300-400
LOT 137 - Three Matchbox cars Est 18-25