Julian Mynott, 42, a dealer with the Blanchard Collective in Froxfield, near Marlborough in Wiltshire, died on Saturday, May 12, when his rowing boat overturned at a weir on the Avon just near the family home.
Mr Mynott ran Julian Mynott Ltd, which specialises in high-end antiques and home furnishings.
He joined the Blanchard Collective earlier this year. The group moved to their large Froxfield premises in 2009, where 18 separate dealerships are housed.
Blanchard Collective owner Margaret Riordan told ATG: "The members of the Collective are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic death of our colleague Julian Mynott, and of his young son Freddie. Our hearts go out to Emma, his wife, and their family.
"Julian joined the Collective in February, and was a very active and valued member of our group. We were so pleased to welcome such an experienced and likeable dealer, who grew up in the trade and had a great 'eye'.
"His stock was eclectic and exciting, and on his regular visits to the showroom, something unusual would always appear from the back of his van. His passion and his knowledge brought a new dimension to the Collective. We shall miss him greatly."
James Lees, auctioneer at Holloways of Banbury, added: "This is such a tragedy. Everyone who knew Julian liked him. This can be a dog-eat-dog world at times but Julian was a gentleman. In all the years I knew him, I never heard him say a bad word about any other dealer. He will be missed by everyone in the trade."
• The funeral of Julian Mynott together with his youngest son Freddie will take place at St Peter's Church, Barford, on Friday, June 1, at 12.15. Family flowers only but donations if desired to Warwick and Northampton Air Ambulance or Barford Community Charity c/o W. R. Rathbone, 6 High Street, Warwick CV34 4AP.
