Another month, another successful auction for Hansons, with their Derbyshire Four-Day Antiques and Collectors Auction in March surpassing expectations and leaving bidders pleasantly surprised by the results. The antiques and collectors’ market, continues to defy doubts, with prices climbing higher than anticipated.
Day one of the sale saw significant success in the jewellery section, where Jewellery Expert Helen Smith was particularly pleased with the results. Among the standout pieces was Lot 88, a modernist-style amethyst set 14ct gold ring. Featuring a marquise-shaped checkerboard cut amethyst, this lot was initially estimated at £200-£250 but achieved a hammer price of £320. Another highlight was Lot 127, a collection of amethyst and diamond-set 18ct gold jewellery, which included a cluster pendant, a flower cluster ring, and a two-stone amethyst ring with diamond accents. Estimated at £500-£600, this lot ended up selling for £800, reflecting the ongoing demand for high-quality jewellery. The day also featured Lot 197, a large Baltic amber-type bead necklace, which was expected to fetch between £1,000 and £1,200. It went on to sell for an impressive £3,600, far beyond its estimated value.
As the auction moved into day two, ceramics specialists Rob Churchill and Gillian Finney took the spotlight, showcasing the continued strength of the Royal Crown Derby collection. The ever-popular Imari 1128 pattern once again proved to be a reliable seller, with both decorative and functional pieces performing well. Whether complete sets, part sets, or even damaged sets, this pattern consistently delivers strong results. The Royal Crown Derby paperweights also garnered significant attention. A collection from a single vendor, featuring 64 lots, all sold in groups—none were left unsold, further demonstrating the continued demand for these iconic pieces.
One particularly pleasant surprise came from Lot 1066, a pair of Derby Peacocks. These ornately decorated pieces, often overshadowed by the paperweights, achieved a hammer price of £290, far exceeding their estimate of £50 to £80. Another notable lot was Lot 1079, a Royal Worcester rope-edged plate, signed by the artist T. Lockyer and decorated with fruits. Estimated at £80-£120, it sold for £420.
In the dinner and tea ware section, Lot 1306, a part tea service of hand-painted Vienna Porcelain, captured the attention of bidders. Estimated at £100-£200, this lot fetched a solid £620, while a Spode ‘Fleur de Lys Gold’ dinner and tea ware set soared past its estimate of £100-£150, achieving £850 at the hammer. These sales reaffirm that fine ceramics are still in high demand.
As the auction continued into days three and four, more exciting results followed. Lot 3131, a cased collection of five kingfishers from the early to mid-20th century, captivated taxidermy collectors. The lot sold for £560 after a flurry of bids. Meanwhile, Lot 3064, a Chinese blue and white porcelain bottle vase decorated with birds of paradise, flying dragons, and flaming pearls, went for £520—well above its estimated £150-£200.
The furniture section also enjoyed strong results, with two Georgian dressers selling for close to £1,000. Meanwhile, Lot 2009, a 19th-century skeleton clock in its original glass dome, caught the attention of horology enthusiasts and sold for £500.
Having successfully hosted a range of auctions catering to the antiques and collectors market, Hansons Auctioneers warmly invites anyone interested in antiques and collectables to visit their Etwall saleroom for a free valuation. Whether you’re looking to consign items for auction or simply seeking expert advice, their team is always on hand to offer assistance.
To consign items or for further information, contact Hansons via [email protected] or call 01283 733988. For those looking to buy, Hansons holds monthly auctions, as well as fine art and iconic design. Visit www.hansonsauctioneers.co.uk for more details.
Upcoming Auction Information
Auction: Derby April Three-Day Antiques & Collectors
Auction date: 17th – 23rd April 2025 | 9:30am
Location: Hansons Derbyshire Saleroom
Auction contact: [email protected]
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
