Exquisite antiques and collectables amassed over a lifetime by a woman who dedicated her life to public service are set for auction.
A rich array of furnishings, silver and jewellery gathered by passionate antiques collector the late Margaret Stanhope, MBE will be offered in January.
Mrs Stanhope, who served in Staffordshire local government for 51 years, had impeccable taste in antiques and collectables, according to Hansons Auctioneers. Numerous decorative items, including Edwardian and Victorian pieces, adorned her atmospheric Staffordshire cottage, parts of which date back to the 16th century.
Elegant clocks, paintings, furniture, silverware and perfume bottles shine bright in the comprehensive collection which is so special it is being offered in a single-owner sale on January 26, 2024.
Hansons said: “It has been a privilege to catalogue Margaret’s cherished items. Over many years she amassed an exquisite collection of antiques including furniture, silver, jewellery and decorative objects. She demonstrated impeccable taste and an impressive knowledge of fine antiques. This auction will honour the memory of a woman who devoted her life to community service.”
Away from politics and community life, Margaret, who passed away in February 2023 aged 91, had a deep interest in history and developed a passion for antiques, particularly silver and enamels.
Here, Margaret’s sister Janet Evans pays tribute to her life:
“Margaret’s parents were both born in the Staffordshire village of Wychnor. When she was three they moved to Alrewas, also in Staffordshire, where she lived for the rest of her life, dedicated to the village she loved.
“She married when she was 25 and with her husband bought an old cottage, part of which was 16th Century. The first years were spent renovating the building and restoring its historical features wherever possible.
“This developed a deep interest in the Saxon history of the village and inspired her to stand as a parish and later local councillor to enable her to address its conservation for the future.
“As a councillor she was always available to the community to resolve any problems they may have and she became highly respected for the full response she always gave addressing them. She was the only person to be chairman of the local council for a second year and, due to her devoted service to the public, she was asked to accept the chair of the newly formed South Staffordshire Health Authority based at Burton Hospital.
“Under her leadership the new hospital and its associated areas were transformed, particularly in mental health. As a result of her work a new ward was created and voted by the staff to be named after her. Due to her involvement in public service, in 2013 she was awarded an MBE.
“Following her mother’s passion for antiques, Margaret’s interest developed significantly. She attended auctions and explored antiques shops which inspired a lifetime of furnishing and decorating the cottage.
“For a time she participated in a partnership restoring silver plated items, but her real passion was in hallmarked silver, particularly unusual pieces such as tea caddies and perfume bottles. Another interest was miniatures and she had quite a collection. She also loved enamels and bought a vitrine in which to display them – this too is in the sale.
“Antiques and gardening were her two passions in life, and gardening was a real relaxation for her. As years passed the area of the garden changed and she was able to design and develop new areas. These always included old troughs, staddle stones, sculptures and pedestals, so antiques were still in her heart in the garden.
“She enjoyed a life well lived in public service and at home. As was quoted at her commitment:
“We make a living by what we get but we make a life by what we give. Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile”
“This certainly summed up the life of Margaret Stanhope.”
Auction: The Derby Margaret Stanhope Auction will be held on January 26.
Catalogue due live on January 9.
Enquiries: [email protected]
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.thesaleroom.com
Auction entries invited
Hansons can assess all manner of antiques, including major collections, for auction. To gain advice, arrange a home visit or free valuation, please call 01283 733988 or email [email protected]
