1 How did you get your start as a dealer?
I began my career in the Impressionist and Modern art department at Christie’s, where I worked for 20 years. Ten years ago, I set up the private sale division of the department in London, which was the first glimpse of being a dealer. I then left to work as international director for Hauser & Wirth to develop its Impressionist and Modern secondary market sales, before setting up with Florian Härb last year.
2 What challenges are facing the trade in the coming months?
Brexit is a big problem, particularly in view of moving works of art between the UK and the EU. The red tape is fantastical and so are the costs.
3 Have you noticed any collecting trends in the last 6-12 months?
The trends are towards more figurative works and colour. Despite all expectations, the market is strong and there have been some astonishing prices at auction. In the secondary market we have also seen strong demand, much of which is coming from Asia.
'Portrait of Mrs Dorothy Paley' (1936) by Henri Matisse is for sale from Härb Nuti during London Art Week. POA.
4 What is one great discovery you’ve made?
Years ago, I went to a suburb of London and in shabby garden there stood a wonderful Camille Claudel sculpture. After 40 years under the rain, the patina was of course in need of a little clean.
5 Who do you admire in the art/ antiques world?
I love and admire my friend Ann Dumas, who is a curator at the Royal Academy and the Houston Museum of Fine Arts. She has the most passionate and curious mind and has mastered the art of explaining with simplicity the most complex ideas and events which happened at the turn of last century. It is wonderful to be inhabited by your passion like she is and take on new challenges such as her new position in Texas.
If you would like to be featured in 5 Questions, please contact gabrielberner@antiquestradegazette.com
