A new Kent and Sussex auction centre has launched led by renowned antiques expert Charles Hanson.
Charles, a familiar face on popular TV antique shows, has opened a saleroom in the historic village of Penshurst, near Tonbridge, Kent. It’s part of the Hansons Auctioneers group, which launched in Derbyshire in 2005 and boasts seven UK salerooms. The Hansons Kent and Sussex auction centre is located at The Old Post Office, Leicester Square – and entries are open for its first auction in September.
Charles said: “Hansons began serving the people of Kent, Sussex and neighbouring counties from The Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells in 2023.
“I’m thrilled we’ve found a stunning new location. As well as being a picturesque setting, we’re on the doorstep of stately home Penshurst House and Gardens. The new office offers the space we need to develop and grow our general and specialist Kent and Sussex auctions. We also have a new man at the helm in the shape of Justin Matthews. He gained 34 years of experience at Sotheby’s in London and brings a wealth of knowledge and contacts.”
Justin said: “I’m really excited to get started. Hansons Kent and Sussex will host regular fine art silver, jewellery, watches and antique auctions. These will alternate with specialist sales such as posters, lifestyle and luxury. The plan is to develop up to eight auctions a year.
“I pride myself on offering the best possible customer service and I’ve been spreading the word at major summer events including the Heathfield Agricultural Show in East Sussex and the Wealden Times Midsummer Fair in Rolvenden, Kent.
“People can drop into The Old Post Office for no-obligation advice and free valuations. It’s easy to find near the entrance to 14th century manor house Penshurst Place, one of Kent’s most popular visitor attractions. Myself and office administrator Ruby Read are looking forward to welcoming clients old and new.”
Justin’s new challenge reignites a passion for antiques, sparked in childhood. He said: “I developed an interest in antiques as a child due to my parents’ love of collecting and visiting antique fairs. After leaving school I joined London’s Thomas Moore Auctioneers in Greenwich and gained a thorough grounding in all aspects of the business – cataloguing, valuing, auctioneering and portering. This stood me in good stead in 1989 when I joined Sotheby’s in New Bond Street as a gallery porter. I progressed through the ranks to become Director of Operations and Logistics.
“During my 34 years with Sotheby’s I was privileged to handle valuable and iconic artworks including Degas’s ‘Little Dancer’, Rubens’ ‘Massacre of the Innocents’, Alberto Giacometti’s ‘Walking Man’, Renior’s Café scene ‘At the Moulin de la Galette,’ and the famous Banksy ‘Girl with Balloon’ which was shredded at the auction.
“I also led high-profile house sales including Chatsworth House, Stokesay Court, Chevening House, Castle Howard, Castle Hanover and Baden Baden in Germany as well as assisting with important single-owner collections including David Bowie, Elton John, Daimen Hurst, Freddie Mercury and many more. I’m excited to write my next chapter with Hansons. I’m moving back to my roots to lead a regional auction house.”
Charles said: “I’m delighted to be working alongside Justin to develop business. We will be collaborating with specialist consultants and fine art dealers in the South East. Our combined expertise will enable the people of Kent, Sussex and neighbouring counties to take full advantage of booming auction sales. Demand is strong in many sectors including Asian antiques, Chinese porcelain, jewellery, watches, silver, coins and medals, ceramics and glass, wine and spirits and toys. Plus new collectables markets are emerging all the time.”
Hansons Kent and Sussex, The Old Post Office, Leicester Square, Penshurst, Tonbridge, Kent, TN11 8BJ, opened on June 3, 2024. It opens Monday-Friday, 9.30am-5pm, and the last Saturday of the month, 9am-noon. Drop-in valuations Fridays, 10am-4pm, otherwise by appointment. Services include home visits to assess collections, house clearance/downsizing and probate/insurance valuations. Charles Hanson will offer valuations once a month on Saturdays.
Auction entries invited
Entries are invited for the inaugural Hansons Kent and Sussex Auction on September 10.
To discuss a potential consignment or arrange a free valuation, call 01892 642146 or email [email protected]
