Georgian mansion Bishton Hall is set to host free antique valuations every week as a new chapter in the property’s history gets under way.
The Grade II* listed building at Wolseley Bridge in Staffordshire, which dates back to circa 1750, has been purchased by Hansons Auctioneers and, from August 15, it will host free valuation of all types of objects every Thursday, from 10am-4pm.
Antiques expert Ray Heath will be on hand to offer estimates and, if visitors like the guide price, items can be entered into auction. Plus, on August 22, jewellery, silver and watches expert Kate Bliss will be at Bishton Hall from 10am-3pm.
Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons, said: “I’m delighted to take ownership of Bishton Hall which has now become Hansons’ county house auction showroom. I can think of no better place to display fine furniture, paintings and antiques than a period property steeped in history.
“For me, a man passionate about architectural heritage as well as antiques, it brings together two of my greatest loves.
“As well as hosting a range of auctions, we will be offering free valuations at Bishton. You can discover the history of your object while enjoying the property’s period magnificence and Temple Garden, which features one of the best Doric screens in the country.
“I hope the people of Staffordshire will come along to explore this Georgian gem on their doorstep and bring along those items tucked away in drawers and attics for valuation.
“We’re currently gathering objects for our inaugural Fine Art Auction at Bishton in October and can value anything including ceramics, glassware, paintings, works of art, silver, jewellery and watches.
“Ray Heath, the Thursday valuer at Bishton, has been passionate about antiques since the early 1970s when he became interested in 20th century ceramics and decorative arts. He’s been involved in antiques fairs for decades, particularly in his home county of Staffordshire.
“He’s an expert in Moorcroft pottery and has a close friendship with the Moorcroft family.He also has thorough knowledge of Minton, Royal Doulton and Beswick – all pottery we love to see and sell at Hansons.”
Bishton Hall dates back to 1750 but some parts are older. There has been a structure on the site for centuries and Bishton is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086.
It has had many important owners over the centuries including three former Staffordshire High Sheriffs. In 1946, the Stafford Northcote family purchased the hall to house St Bede’s Prep School, which closed last year.
Mr Hanson said: “I follow in some esteemed footsteps and hope to do Bishton proud.”
Free valuations will be held every Thursday, from 10am-4pm, at Bishton Hall, Wolseley Bridge, Staffordshire, ST17 0XN, starting from August 15.
Entries are invited until September 25 for the Autumn Fine Art Auction at Bishton Hall, which runs from October 9-14.
To find out more or to arrange a private valuation or home visit, email [email protected] or call 01889 358050.
Kate Bliss at Bishton Hall
Jewellery, silver and watches expert Kate Bliss will be available for free valuations at Bishton Hall, Wolseley Bridge,
Staffordshire, ST17 0XN, on August 22 and September 19, 10am-3pm.
