News

THE antiques trade is mourning the loss of two of the leading figures of their generation. Maurice Turpin (1928-2005), the Mayfair dealer in fine period furniture and objects and David Sanctuary Howard (1928-2005), Chinese export porcelain connoisseur, both died, aged 77, last week.

HE HAS suffered a few knocks to his character in his 110-year history, but when Golly’s life began over a century ago, it was hard to find anything not to love about him.

THE trade are being warned of a new internet scam that risks involving innocent dealers in money laundering – and can leave them with large bills to pay.

TATE Britain has acquired an important painting by Richard Parkes Bonnington (1802-1828) thanks to grants from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Art Fund.

HAMPTONS Auctioneers of Godalming will change their name to Dreweatt Neate this month. Having become part of The Fine Art Auction Group earlier this year, the saleroom will be rebranded under the Dreweatt Neate banner in time for the Surrey firm’s April 13 sale.

EBAY appear to have dropped their ban on the sale of works by Italian designer Fulvio Bianconi.

In 2001 international connoisseurial interest and commercial hype accompanied a major exhibition and accompanying book on the Belgian ceramicist Charles Catteau (1880-1966). There are signs that the market is now beginning to mature – minor Boch Frères works by Catteau were very soft at Bonhams in London on March 1 – but Brussels auctioneers Horta were able to offer a major signed studio piece by the artist on March 21-22.