Fishing about at auction

William Gregory MRICS of Golding Young & Mawer brings you news from the sales room.
Traditionally auctions had specialist sections; furniture, silver and jewellery, fine art, ceramics and general effects.

Much time and effort was spent organising auctions in order for potential buyers to easily find items of interest. The auctions were even laid out in such a way that would allow them to be viewed efficiently.

If time is money then traditionally a lot of time was needed if you were going to find something extra special.

Today much has changed and whilst attention to detail and presentation are still important for a well organised auction, modern technology allows buyers to source items via online catalogues and search engines.

The illustrations in this article show just what can be found at auction if you are willing to fish around, and what prices have been achieved.

Top price goes to an early twentieth-century stuffed fish in a glass bow fronted cabinet. This item truly represents Victorian collecting but at £3,400 still has value and appeal in today’s market.

A Lalique fish bowl recently sold for £300, confirming there is always demand for the iconic French glass manufacturer.

Silver fish servers with pierced decoration would add a little style to a fish supper at £170, as would the paisley serving dish at £600.

An articulated fish pendant and chain could be the catch of the day at £250. Finally the buy of the auction for the person who does now have everything is a stuffed puffer fish – a bargain at £28.

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