A rare and early Steiff Polar Bear is to be sold by Lawrences Auctioneers of Crewkerne. The toy was spotted during a routine valuation in the client’s home in West Somerset. “This Polar Bear was made by the world famous Steiff factory in around 1910,” says Lawrences’ specialist, Simon Jones. “The handsome fellow has a jointed body and black boot button eyes, and importantly the Steiff Button is still present in his ear.” Full story: Read more
AN EVENING WITH ERIC KNOWLES, 7pm Tuesday 23rd June at Haselbury Mill, nr Crewkerne
Join us for an evening of superb entertainment with Eric Knowles, one of the best-known experts on the BBC’s Antiques Road Show and other Programmes. Eric will warm us up before dinner with an “on the hoof” valuation session where he will examine, identify and value items brought in by guests. Buy six tickets and YOU can bring an item to be valued!!! After dinner he will entertain us in his own irreverent way with a unique blend of anecdote, reminiscences and wicked wit, drawing on many years experience as auctioneer, antiques dealer and TV personality. Full story: Read more
Caveat Emptor (Buyer Beware) By John Martin
When surrounding oneself with things from the past either as a collector concentrating on a particular subject or in general terms furnishing a home with antique furniture or simply an interest in just a few decorative items to add to a home, creating a pleasant environment, discrimination when making a purchase is all important.
Originality as near as possible and good condition coupled with a richness of feel and colour which cannot be imitated associated with years of careful use and handling should be the aim.