Your guide to arts and antiques

Drake’s Auctions are fast approaching their quarterly Jewellery and Collectables live auction which will take place on Monday 26th June and have a treat for the classic car enthusiast.

Alongside the fantastic range of jewellery, silverware and collectables there is a fantastic example of a Morris Cowley Bullnose up for grabs. In 1923 the Morris Bullnose became Britain’s most popular car and it’s now approaching its centenary.  At almost 100 years old this lovely example is a usable veteran that should only appreciate in value. 

This car will certainly put a smile on one lucky buyers face, with a guide of £7,000-£10,000 viewing is highly recommended.

This auction will be held live from 10am on the 26th at the auction rooms at 6 parade Business Park, Pixon Lane, Tavistock, PL19 9RQ. If you can’t make it on sale day there is always the option to bid live online or leave bids during one of the viewing days.

For more information about this lot, viewing times or upcoming auctions call the team on 01822 616992 or email [email protected]   For more information click here

Every so often in this trade we get to buy something very special and this fabulous military secretaire chest has got to be my favourite purchase this year and something that I’m sure I’ll regret selling!

It was made in around 1850 and would have been commissioned for a military officer. The chest would have travelled with him overseas and formed part of his camp while on campaign. I don’t know the full history of this piece but it has likely spent time in India because it is made from camphor wood which was specifically used in Eastern countries to repel insects and bugs.

The desk part of the Secretaire would have been used for correspondence, the large drawers for clothes and uniforms and the smaller drawers would have most likely been for personal items.

It splits into three principal parts, each held in place by wooden dowels to allow it to be transported easily in the back of vehicles or carried on foot over rough terrain. Even the feet unthread and the handles are set back flush so as each part could be packed neatly into a wooden crate for transport.

There are brass corner pieces and brass strapping to provide extra protection against knocks and bumps while travelling.

Campaign pieces are always excellent quality and, although made to be moved, there was no expense spared in their manufacture. Every little detail was carefully thought out to bring a touch of home to their station overseas.

Lydia Wood - In A Nutshell Antiques

For more information click here 01364 654648

The May auction at the Sticklepath Saleroom was another cracking one! Great prices achieved for vendors and a wonderful atmosphere in the lively sale room. Never, ever a dull moment. The one off tapestry painting fetched £560 (including premium) and many, many items fetched over their reserve. Vendors were chuffed! 

Many items went for good money and most of the items sold had no reserve – it was, in fact an excellent, fun filled day. The Dartmoor Auctions Team retired to The Taw River to celebrate! 

The next auction at The Sticklepath Saleroom promises to be one to remember. Not least since we are stretching to a 2 day sale as we have so many wonderful items to offer up. Many pictures and postcards and army recruitment ephemera. A great selection of crystal and cut glass decanters, glasses etc. There will be a huge amount of Railway Models and furniture to choose from – plus railway goodies for the collectors. 

Highlights promise to be: 

Fantastic selection of printed ephemera from a recently closed shop 

Antique books that need a new home 

Huge selection of Watercolours and Oils and framed prints 

Retro and vintage toys 

African art 

Superb selection of outdoor garden items 

If you haven’t attended an auction before then do come and make a day of it – or pop along to the viewing on Thursday where Ann and Tim will be on hand to answer any questions and make you a cuppa, or view and bid on line at : www.easyliveauction.com 

Friday 9th June 10 am start – Auction Day (1) 

Saturday 10th June 10 am start Auction Day (2) 

The Sticklepath Saleroom – on the old A30 at Bowdens Nursery EX20 2NL 

Telephone: 01837 849379 or 01837 840535 For more information click here