A lifetime of collecting, shaped by a love of art, craftsmanship and the stories behind individual pieces, is coming to Hansons Cornwall in an unusual single-owner sale.
The collection belonged to Nicholas and Susan Thomas, who spent decades finding objects that meant something to them. Rather than buying with investment in mind, they chose things they loved, gradually building a home filled with art, studio pottery and pieces connected to Cornwall’s rich artistic heritage.
The couple moved from Bristol to Cornwall in 2001, settling in Newlyn, where they continued to enjoy their shared passion for collecting.
Nicholas, who died in 2025 aged 97, had led a remarkable life. An archaeologist and former chairman of the Cornwall Archaeological Society, he had a deep interest in history and the stories objects can tell. Susan worked as an occupational therapist, and together they developed an eye for pieces that reflected their interests and the people and places they admired.
Their collection has strong connections to Cornwall’s artistic community, including Gwithian, the Penlee tradition, potter Michael Cardew and the work of Bernard Leach. It also reflects their appreciation of more contemporary makers, including Scott Marshall and Clive Bowen.
The pieces are accompanied by a wealth of supporting material, including catalogues, receipts and provenance information, offering a fascinating insight into how the collection grew over the years.
Darren Ashley of Hansons Cornwall said: “What makes a collection like this so special is that it tells you something about the people who put it together. Nicholas and Susan collected things because they genuinely loved them, and you can see that in the pieces they chose.
“It’s also wonderful to see such strong links to Cornwall and its artistic heritage. This isn’t simply a group of objects brought together for a sale; it’s a lifetime of interests, friendships and discoveries, and we’re pleased to be able to share it with new owners.”
For collectors, the sale offers an opportunity to discover pieces chosen with care over many years, while the accompanying records help preserve the stories behind them.
The sale offers a fitting tribute to Nicholas and Susan’s years of collecting, while giving others the opportunity to enjoy pieces they clearly treasured.
The collection will go under the hammer at Hansons Cornwall on Tuesday 17th November.
Have you got something special tucked away at home? Hansons Cornwall offers free, no-obligation valuations. Call 01736 339350, email [email protected] or visit www.hansonscornwall.co.uk.
Auction Details
Auction: The Collection of Nicholas and Susan Thomas of Newlyn
Auction date: Tuesday 17th November 2026 | 10am
Location: Hansons Cornwall Saleroom
Auction contact: [email protected]
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
