Jane subsequently moved into London to work at Bonhams where a career highlight was the discovery of the Adams Collection, an extensive collection of antiquities and works of art acquired by the late Sylvia Adams and hidden from view for half a century.
The stand-out piece – a bronze of Hercules by Antico which later sold for £2.5m – was found wrapped in 1940s newspaper in the boarded-up eaves of the house.
Following the success of the Adams sale, Jane set up her own business in Hertfordshire, Anderson Associates – Art & Antique Valuers. Among important finds was the discovery of an imperial Qianlong famille rose vase sold at auction for over £9m.
Jane’s daughter, Emily Thomsen, joined the family business in 2004 and continues to run the firm today – recently overseeing the consignment of a large collection of Moorcroft pottery to Amersham Auction Rooms.
Emily can be contacted on 01923 400429 or 07971 575474.
