Spring has traditionally been seen as the best time of year to sell by auction. People emerge from their winter hibernation and there is new life in the air and a rebirth in home furnishing. The ‘spring clean’ is after all a positive statement of change and growth. This tradition however is under pressure from our 24/7 culture. The growth of the internet and ‘real time’ global bidding in our saleroom has meant that seasonal distinctions no longer apply and the market bids all year round. For the seller as well as the buyer this is a good thing and the levelling out of the seasonal playing field has obviously been good for business for buyers and sellers alike.

This year we have a plethora of exciting auctions coming up, some good private collections and some excellent and fascinating objects. In March, our Pictures, Silver and Jewellery auction benefits from a good private consignment of coins and a map collection. In April our country house auction is privileged to host the Wright Collection of Caughley blue and white porcelain, an auction which is already keenly anticipated by the Caughley collectors’ market.

 Life does not stand still and neither does Halls Fine Art. We are introducing new facets to our social media platforms, podcasts, chats with specialists and image based sale previews. Our website has been redesigned to make it more accessible and our valuation templates and e-shots ensure that sellers and buyers have a rewarding and pleasant experience.

Talking of a pleasant experience, if you have not partaken of the delicious cakes at the Halls café, hand made by chef Alex on the premises, you are missing a trick. Best time to test them is on a Monday between 10am-1pm when, coincidentally, our specialists are available for free antiques valuations. See you soon.

by Jeremy Lamond, Director of Halls Fine Art