Book Launch

It was a privilege to attend the book launch of 'Industry and Ingenuity' at Christie's on Monday evening, and a delight to meet the authors, Hugh Roberts and Charlie Cator.  An extra bonus was the Ince & Mayhew furniture on display as part of the auction of the Collection of Lord and Lady Weinstock.

The auction was held on Tuesday and it is interesting to note the prices that were realised.  The pair of gilt-brass mounted, marquetry and giltwood pier tables had an estimate of £100,000 to £150,000 and realised £163,800, the pair of gilt-metal mounted marquetry and painted demi-lune commodes had the same estimate and realised £151,200, and the satinwood-crossbanded mahogany chest, estimated at £5000 to £8000, realised £44,100!  The pair of gilt-brass mounted, marquetry, painted and giltwood demi-lune console tables were not sold.  A joy to be able to read all about these pieces and the people who commissioned them in 'Industry and Ingenuity'.