Historic setting
Hosted in the restored historic setting of County Hall overlooking Westminster, the seminar attracted a sell-out crowd of 260 people.
No peril was posed to this “cream of the trade”, as one delegate described the audience, by an unexploded Second World War bomb found in the Thames near the venue after the event closed.
Intense discussion, avid networking and catching up with old friends were the order of the day.
The seminar, held in association with auctioneer body SOFAA and in partnership with the British Antique Dealers’ Association, was conceived by ATG publishing director Matt Ball and SOFAA chairman, Helen Carless, with a programme created by ATG editor Noelle McElhatton.
“The size of the turnout at the ATG’s seminar, in association with SOFAA, was proof, if it was needed, that keeping up with the latest CITES regulations is vital,” Carless said.
“SOFAA members have always been kept informed regarding CITES and all credit to ATG for its thoughtleadership in bringing the whole industry together, with full representation from dealers and auctioneers.
“This joint industry approach will be vital as we navigate through the government consultation and try to ensure that the case against a total ban on the trade in ivory is clearly made to as wide an audience as possible.”
Sessions were held under the Chatham House Rule, which precludes direct reporting but encouraged frank discussions on the day.
▪ ATG extends warm thanks to the seminar’s expert speakers, event partners and the staff at etc.venues County Hall.
