Works of Art Auctions

The Works of Art department at Bellmans Auctioneers forms a central part of our monthly Interiors Auctions held at the Sussex saleroom. It is our broadest department, encompassing a wide range of specialist collecting areas.

Material offered includes sculpture, metalware, portrait miniatures, tribal art and ethnographica, boxes and tea caddies, lighting and 20th century art and design, as well as specialist fields such as arms and armour, militaria, maritime material, motoring and automobilia, railwayana, fishing and sporting memorabilia, natural history, scientific instruments, toys and collectables, fashion accessories and luxury goods.

Rather than defining the department narrowly, each item is assessed on its own merits and placed appropriately within the auction.

Recent Highlights

Recent results demonstrate the diversity of material handled. Highlights include a signed bronze bust by Jacob Epstein, circa 1921, portraying Kathleen, which realised £6,600; and a rare portrait on vellum by Wenceslaus Hollar depicting Henry Fitzalan, 12th Earl of Arundel, which sold for £5,000.

An early 19th century Indian gold-inlaid tulwar sword achieved £10,000, while a single-owner collection of cars and motorcycles included a 1926 Douglas EW 350 motorcycle, sold for £6,500. Other notable results include a 19th century West Indies shellwork sailor’s valentine (£1,700), a circa 1905 tinplate toy castle by Märklin (£8,800), and a group of travelling trunks and cases by Goyard and Louis Vuitton, which together realised over £16,500.

Valuation and Sale

Works of Art are valued with reference to condition, originality, provenance and current market demand. Items may be offered individually or as part of collections, depending on their nature.

Valuations are available at our Sussex saleroom and London office at Cromwell Place, South Kensington, with additional valuation days held at selected locations. Preliminary advice can also be provided remotely, with further inspection arranged where appropriate. Home visits may be organised by appointment.

For further information or to arrange a valuation, please contact our London or Sussex office and a member of the team will be happy to advise.