The exhibition, SOLD! The Great British Antiques Story, is guest-curated by Mark Westgarth of Leeds University, who, during 10 years of research, has worked to track the cultural geography of British antiques dealing in the 20th century.
Running until May 5, the show features 33 objects from collections such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, British Museum and The National Gallery.
The launch night event was opened by dealer Lennox Cato of The Edenbridge Galleries who was joined by a number of dealers. Cato also hosted a talk at the museum about the show and his career.
Dealer Lennox Cato speaking at the Bowes Museum with Mark Westgarth, curator of 'SOLD! The Great British Antiques Story'.
Jane Whittaker, head of collections at The Bowes Museum, said: “It’s really special that The Bowes Museum is the first place to hold an exhibition dedicated to the history of the antique trade.
“Our founders, John and Joséphine Bowes, sourced much of their collection from dealers throughout Europe so I believe they would have been delighted that their museum is hosting this pioneering show, featuring their finds alongside many breath-taking objects.”
ATG previewed the exhibition last year (ATG No 2372).
Photo credit: Anne Somers.
