1. How did you get your start?
With a fantastic antiques dealer called Mike Chapman in Finedon. I started as work experience which led to a job and I had a lot of help from the other dealers he knew.
One day Mike gave me some money and left me at an auction to try my luck. During the sale, a stranger suggested I buy a dinner service. I did and much to my delight it sold back at the shop. Perhaps it was all a set-up – but I was hooked and that was it.
2. What are your hopes for 2018?
A wealthy person drops by the shop and spends a fortune.
3. What are one or two current buying trends you have noticed?
Wish I knew – at one fair I might only sell landscapes. At the next, nobody wants them.
4. What’s coming up for you this year?
I’m having a portrait exhibition that covers the 16th-20th centuries. It’s called Discoveries: An Exhibition of Lost Portraits (March 5-April 2), and includes more than 30 previously unknown works. It’s been fascinating learning about the artists included and the eras they represent.
5. Real ale or espresso martini?
Real ale as that usually means you’re in good surroundings.
If you would like to be featured in 5 Questions, please contact francesallitt@antiquestradegazette.com
