1 How did you get your start?
I come from an academic background. I was always interested in the art market and in the possibility of making discoveries there and of handling works of art. Dealing was a consequence of that curiosity.
The market has changed a lot since then. There are fewer collectors, and their age is growing. Some fields, such as furniture or Baroque pictures, used to be very strong and now are very weak. However, I don’t think that the future is bleak.
2 What is one highlight item in your stock right now?
The Mystic Marriage of St Catherine of Alexandria by Lavinia Fontana (1552-1614), a rediscovered masterpiece by this incredibly important woman painter.
'The Mystic Marriage of St Catherine of Alexandria' by Lavinia Fontana, offered for sale by Callisto Fine Arts.
3 Who do you admire in the world of art?
A great art historian, Jennifer Montagu, who specialises in Italian Baroque sculpture.
4 What do you collect personally?
I like drawings that relate to sculpture and contemporary objects, but I often end up buying the unexpected, even for me. I once went to a sale to buy antiques and brought home a splendid painting by Derek Jarman (1944-92), The Pleasures of Italy. I am very proud of it.
5 Real ale or espresso martini?
Neither of the two. Sauvignon Blanc: in vino veritas.
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