Mercer, whose areas of expertise included antique spoons and wine labels, was originally from South Africa but for the last 20 years had worked at London dealers JH Bourdon-Smith. She had helped conduct research for Tim Kent’s publications on British silver.
Edward Bourdon-Smith described her as a “lynchpin of our business” and said she was “very kind and always concerned for other people”.
“She was extremely generous with her time and prepared to help out in any way she could,” he said. “The same was true outside of her work. I remember her helping conduct a charity auction at my father’s local church. It raised a lot of money and she conducted the event with a smile throughout.
“She will be greatly and sadly missed.”
Robyn Mercer, who was found dead outside her home last week.
The Mason's Yard silver specialists were exhibiting at the BADA Fair in London at the time of Mercer’s untimely death and decided to close their stand at the fair as a mark of respect to their late colleague.
Victoria Borwick, the Conservative MP for Kensington and President of BADA said: “On behalf of the membership of BADA I would like to express our deepest sympathy to Robyn’s family, friends and colleagues.
“Robyn Mercer has been an integral part of the well-respected team at J H Bourdon-Smith for many years. I hope for the sake of the family that the person or people who committed this dreadful crime are soon brought to justice.”
Meanwhile the family of the late mother-of-two has released a short statement through the police: “We are all utterly devastated to have lost Robyn. She was a wonderful person, loving mother and devoted friend. Thank you to all our friends and family for their love and support.
“We would appreciate privacy at this difficult time.”
Two men from the West Molesey area were arrested in connection with her death but both were released on bail last Friday. The police investigation is continuing.
