0:00:14 > 0:00:16Welcome to Woburn Abbey.
0:00:16 > 0:00:18I've come here today to see a collection of paintings
0:00:18 > 0:00:20by a world-renowned artist.
0:00:20 > 0:00:22Who am I talking about?
0:00:22 > 0:00:23Well, here's a clue.
0:00:24 > 0:00:26Yes, it's a Canaletto.
0:00:26 > 0:00:28And just through there is the most famous room
0:00:28 > 0:00:30full of Canalettos in the world.
0:00:30 > 0:00:33We'll be looking at that later on in the show.
0:00:33 > 0:00:36But, right now, we need to find some antiques and collectables
0:00:36 > 0:00:37all of our own.
0:00:37 > 0:00:39Welcome to Flog It!
0:01:00 > 0:01:01Full of international flavour,
0:01:01 > 0:01:04this stunning manor house is Wrest Park,
0:01:04 > 0:01:06home to our valuations today.
0:01:09 > 0:01:13A French-style chateaux, built at the end of the Georgian era.
0:01:13 > 0:01:16Inside can be found rooms full of Eastern promise.
0:01:16 > 0:01:18We'll come back to that a bit later on in the show,
0:01:18 > 0:01:20because there's a queue forming around this building
0:01:20 > 0:01:22which mustn't be kept waiting.
0:01:29 > 0:01:33The sun is shining, there are smiles on everybody's faces here.
0:01:33 > 0:01:35Hundreds of people have turned up
0:01:35 > 0:01:37and lined the terrace for us today.
0:01:37 > 0:01:40From all over Bedfordshire and beyond,
0:01:40 > 0:01:43carrying their unwanted antiques and collectables.
0:01:43 > 0:01:45Some of these items may have come from countries
0:01:45 > 0:01:47from far-flung corners of the globe.
0:01:47 > 0:01:49But the one thing they do have in common
0:01:49 > 0:01:51is if you're happy with the valuation,
0:01:51 > 0:01:54- what are you going to do? - ALL:- Flog It!
0:01:56 > 0:01:58And it's a good job, too.
0:01:58 > 0:02:00Because already rifling through the queue
0:02:00 > 0:02:03is our intrepid antique explorer Anita Manning...
0:02:03 > 0:02:06Do you wear it? Where did you get it? Have you used it?
0:02:07 > 0:02:10..who always asks the right questions.
0:02:10 > 0:02:13- Do you like cats?- I do. I love cats.
0:02:13 > 0:02:15- Has this one got a name?- No.
0:02:17 > 0:02:18And the man with all the answers
0:02:18 > 0:02:21is "Flog It!" new boy David Harper.
0:02:21 > 0:02:23Yeah, 19th century.
0:02:23 > 0:02:26Got a bit of African tribal art going on here, haven't we?
0:02:26 > 0:02:28But can he keep up with Anita Manning?
0:02:29 > 0:02:32A military gentleman, a military gentleman.
0:02:32 > 0:02:33- Really?- I was.
0:02:33 > 0:02:36David was a Boy Scout.
0:02:36 > 0:02:37Yeah, but I was barred.
0:02:38 > 0:02:41On that note, I think we'd better get a move on.
0:02:41 > 0:02:44Let's get this raucous bunch down to the formal gardens,
0:02:44 > 0:02:47where we'll be holding our valuations today.
0:02:47 > 0:02:48All under the watchful gaze
0:02:48 > 0:02:50of Wrest's impressive collection
0:02:50 > 0:02:52of 18th century statues.
0:02:55 > 0:02:57And I think the pairs of lovers
0:02:57 > 0:03:00are rubbing off on our experts today,
0:03:00 > 0:03:04because they've got one thing on their minds...
0:03:04 > 0:03:07For me, the main use of a fan...
0:03:07 > 0:03:09is to flirt.
0:03:09 > 0:03:10If it makes 200,
0:03:10 > 0:03:13you're taking me out on a date. How's that?
0:03:14 > 0:03:17But how do our items fare at auction?
0:03:17 > 0:03:20- It was close, wasn't it? - That is absolutely astonishing.
0:03:20 > 0:03:23And will Pat have to go on that date?
0:03:23 > 0:03:26- You're a bit in shock, aren't you? - I am.
0:03:29 > 0:03:31Well, look at that for a valuation day backdrop.
0:03:31 > 0:03:34It doesn't get any better than this.
0:03:34 > 0:03:36So, let's get this show on the road
0:03:36 > 0:03:38and catch up with our experts to see what they've uncovered.
0:03:40 > 0:03:42And, as Anita loves her diamonds,
0:03:42 > 0:03:45she's very happy to have sat down with Janet.
0:03:46 > 0:03:48Tell me, where did you get it?
0:03:48 > 0:03:49My late husband gave it to me
0:03:49 > 0:03:52about 15 years ago as a birthday present.
0:03:52 > 0:03:54He liked to buy me nice things.
0:03:54 > 0:03:57I think he got as much pleasure out of giving them to me
0:03:57 > 0:03:58as I did in wearing them.
0:03:58 > 0:04:00So, it was lovely.
0:04:00 > 0:04:03- Did you choose it? Did he choose it? - He chose it for me.
0:04:03 > 0:04:07He always had very good taste and he knew what I liked, so that was good.
0:04:07 > 0:04:09- Expensive and nice things.- Yes.
0:04:09 > 0:04:12Tell me, do you wear it now?
0:04:12 > 0:04:14I used to wear it, but I haven't worn it for a while,
0:04:14 > 0:04:17because I don't have the occasion to wear that type of thing.
0:04:17 > 0:04:19It's really very much
0:04:19 > 0:04:21a going-out-to-posh-places thing, isn't it?
0:04:21 > 0:04:24- That's posh stuff.- Yeah. ANITA LAUGHS
0:04:24 > 0:04:27It's lovely. Now, I've had a wee look at it.
0:04:27 > 0:04:31It's set in either platinum
0:04:31 > 0:04:34- or a high carat white gold.- OK.
0:04:34 > 0:04:36And we have...
0:04:36 > 0:04:39both baguette diamonds
0:04:39 > 0:04:41and round brilliance
0:04:41 > 0:04:44- of various different sizes.- OK.
0:04:44 > 0:04:46I think cumulatively
0:04:46 > 0:04:49we've probably got over two carats there.
0:04:49 > 0:04:51Diamonds are always beautiful
0:04:51 > 0:04:54and diamonds are always in fashion.
0:04:54 > 0:04:56Yes. OK.
0:04:56 > 0:04:59I would put an estimate of, say, five to seven
0:04:59 > 0:05:01on the brooch
0:05:01 > 0:05:07and we would put a reserve price of maybe 450.
0:05:07 > 0:05:10But I would like a bit of discretion on that 450,
0:05:10 > 0:05:13- if you're happy with that? - Yeah. Thank you.
0:05:13 > 0:05:14Will you be sad to see it go?
0:05:14 > 0:05:17I will, because it was a special present,
0:05:17 > 0:05:19but I need a new lawnmower.
0:05:19 > 0:05:22- Oh, right.- How boring is that? But there you go.
0:05:22 > 0:05:25- Needs are as needs must. - I know, I know.
0:05:25 > 0:05:27So, we'll keep our fingers crossed with that
0:05:27 > 0:05:30- and I hope that it will do very well.- Thank you.
0:05:30 > 0:05:32- I'm delighted that you brought it in.- Thank you very much, indeed.
0:05:32 > 0:05:35- It's a lovely thing to look at. - Thank you.
0:05:37 > 0:05:40And now from one beautifully crafted item to another.
0:05:42 > 0:05:46- Well, Pat, they say that size isn't everything?- Yes.- Yeah.
0:05:46 > 0:05:48Well, actually, I think it probably is, because that...
0:05:48 > 0:05:50Look at that little diddler!
0:05:50 > 0:05:51What do you know about it?
0:05:51 > 0:05:54- Not a lot. - Is that why you're here?- Yes.
0:05:54 > 0:05:56Well, thanks for being helpful.
0:05:56 > 0:05:57DAVID CHORTLES
0:05:57 > 0:05:59Any idea what it's made from?
0:05:59 > 0:06:01I think it's ivory.
0:06:01 > 0:06:03Absolutely right. It is ivory.
0:06:03 > 0:06:07Now then, ivory, of course, is a contentious issue.
0:06:07 > 0:06:09It's something that...
0:06:10 > 0:06:13..we all believe should not ever, under any circumstances,
0:06:13 > 0:06:15- be used today.- Yes.
0:06:15 > 0:06:18But this object comes from a different time.
0:06:18 > 0:06:20Can you get your mind around
0:06:20 > 0:06:22how someone has sat down
0:06:22 > 0:06:25and carved that by hand?
0:06:25 > 0:06:28It's very difficult to believe that anybody could do that.
0:06:28 > 0:06:33Yeah. It is very intricate and incredibly skilled.
0:06:33 > 0:06:36- So, how long have you had it for? - About 40 years.
0:06:36 > 0:06:40- OK. And do you know what it was made for?- No.
0:06:40 > 0:06:43Pat, you've had 40 years of research.
0:06:43 > 0:06:45I'm now going to give you a clue.
0:06:45 > 0:06:48So, we open the lid. You hold that there, Pat.
0:06:48 > 0:06:52And then we have little mother-of-pearl counters.
0:06:52 > 0:06:53For what, Pat?
0:06:54 > 0:06:57- Gambling?- Gambling. Thanks for the assistance there.
0:06:59 > 0:07:00So, it's Chinese...
0:07:00 > 0:07:02it's very exotic...
0:07:02 > 0:07:06- made around 1850 to 1890. - Really?
0:07:06 > 0:07:10I think it was made for us in Hong Kong
0:07:10 > 0:07:14- during the early days of our ownership of that territory.- Mmh.
0:07:14 > 0:07:16And it's something that a gentleman about town
0:07:16 > 0:07:18would own and carry it with him,
0:07:18 > 0:07:20because gambling was big business.
0:07:20 > 0:07:24And there are accounts through the 18th and 19th centuries
0:07:24 > 0:07:27where people lost their homes,
0:07:27 > 0:07:29- like this...- Yes.
0:07:29 > 0:07:30..because of things like this.
0:07:30 > 0:07:33Literally estates were lost overnight,
0:07:33 > 0:07:35and gained,
0:07:35 > 0:07:37because of little objects like that.
0:07:37 > 0:07:40So, you've had it for 40 years. How did you come about it?
0:07:40 > 0:07:43I was given it by a lady that I knew.
0:07:43 > 0:07:45I used to do her hair for her.
0:07:45 > 0:07:48So, do you look at it? Do you have it on display?
0:07:48 > 0:07:51- It's in the cabinet, on display.- OK.
0:07:51 > 0:07:55Now, the market for ivory, I've got to tell you, is on the slip down.
0:07:55 > 0:07:59It's going to be an example of how cheap antiques really are.
0:07:59 > 0:08:02It's going to have to be £40-£60.
0:08:02 > 0:08:04- It might make...- Really? - I know. It's not much, is it?
0:08:04 > 0:08:07- You thought it was worth more, didn't you?- Yes, I did actually.
0:08:07 > 0:08:11Well, that's good. I like to build them up and then drag them down.
0:08:11 > 0:08:13Right, shall we reserve it at 40?
0:08:13 > 0:08:15- Uh-huh, yes.- So, you're happy to take it home if it doesn't sell?
0:08:15 > 0:08:18- Or do you want it just to go?- No. If it doesn't sell, I'll take it home.
0:08:18 > 0:08:20OK. 40 to 60 and reserve it at 40.
0:08:20 > 0:08:24If it makes two hundred, you're taking me out on a date. How's that?
0:08:26 > 0:08:28Don't agree to anything Pat.
0:08:28 > 0:08:31You don't know what it might make at auction.
0:08:31 > 0:08:32The crowds are still flocking in
0:08:32 > 0:08:35and bringing all sorts of items with them,
0:08:35 > 0:08:38including some very cute collectables.
0:08:38 > 0:08:41Oh, what a lovely teddy. Is he yours?
0:08:41 > 0:08:44- My brother's. - Has he got a name?- No.
0:08:44 > 0:08:47Awww! Shall we give him a name right here, right now?
0:08:47 > 0:08:49- Yes.- What shall we call him?
0:08:49 > 0:08:51Any ideas what we can call teddy?
0:08:51 > 0:08:53Let's christen him today!
0:08:53 > 0:08:55Not Paul, no. There's a better name than Paul.
0:08:55 > 0:08:58- FLOGGER:- Gilbert! - Sorry? Fred Bear.
0:08:58 > 0:09:01Someone said Gilbert. Who said Gilbert?
0:09:01 > 0:09:03Gilbert. I like Gilbert. Do you like Gilbert?
0:09:03 > 0:09:07- Do you like Gilbert? - Yes.- Gilbert the bear.
0:09:07 > 0:09:10Look at that. Welcome to Flog It!
0:09:10 > 0:09:17MUSIC: Spectrum by Florence And The Machine
0:09:17 > 0:09:18You've got to have a name.
0:09:18 > 0:09:20And the more well-known, the better.
0:09:20 > 0:09:23As Anita can testify with her next find.
0:09:25 > 0:09:27Val...
0:09:27 > 0:09:31Royal Doulton is one of the best of the factories.
0:09:31 > 0:09:35And this is a wonderful large example
0:09:35 > 0:09:37of Doulton's work
0:09:37 > 0:09:40in the first half of the 20th century.
0:09:40 > 0:09:43It is called a Dickens jug.
0:09:43 > 0:09:48But tell me first of all how you came by it?
0:09:48 > 0:09:51It belonged to a great friend of my mother's
0:09:51 > 0:09:55and when she died, my mother had it
0:09:55 > 0:09:57and when my mother died, I had it.
0:09:57 > 0:10:01- Right. Do you like it, Val? - I don't particularly like it, no.
0:10:01 > 0:10:05- Tell me why you don't like it. - I don't like the colours...- Uh-huh.
0:10:05 > 0:10:08..and I just find it a bit...
0:10:09 > 0:10:10- ..dark.- Yeah.
0:10:10 > 0:10:13I can imagine a child finding that scary.
0:10:13 > 0:10:19With what appears like hundreds of faces on the jug.
0:10:19 > 0:10:22I've spent quite a lot of time trying to work out
0:10:22 > 0:10:24which figure was which.
0:10:24 > 0:10:26- So, it's given you a bit of fun, hasn't it?- Yes.
0:10:26 > 0:10:28Well, let's have a think about it.
0:10:28 > 0:10:32All of these faces here...
0:10:32 > 0:10:35are characters in Dickens' novels.
0:10:35 > 0:10:38If we turn it up and have a look at the back stamp...
0:10:40 > 0:10:45..we can see that we have three banners
0:10:45 > 0:10:48with lists of Dickens characters in them.
0:10:48 > 0:10:52And it's interesting to try to guess
0:10:52 > 0:10:54- which ones are which.- Yes, it is.
0:10:54 > 0:10:56Now, we have a little bit of script here.
0:10:57 > 0:11:02The script reads, "Keep my memory green."
0:11:02 > 0:11:03Yes.
0:11:03 > 0:11:06What that is is keep my memory fresh.
0:11:06 > 0:11:10So, by designing this jug,
0:11:10 > 0:11:12the owner of the jug
0:11:12 > 0:11:13is continually reminded
0:11:13 > 0:11:17of the wonderful Dickens characters.
0:11:17 > 0:11:21Now, this jug was designed by Charles Noke,
0:11:21 > 0:11:24who was one of the Royal Doulton's
0:11:24 > 0:11:28most prestigious designers.
0:11:28 > 0:11:32Just as Charles Dickens painted so wonderfully
0:11:32 > 0:11:34the characters in his books,
0:11:34 > 0:11:39so Charles Noke designed the characters on this jug.
0:11:39 > 0:11:43So, I think that it's really quite a lovely thing.
0:11:43 > 0:11:46Would it have been decorative or would it have another use?
0:11:46 > 0:11:48It would have been a decorative jug.
0:11:48 > 0:11:50You wouldn't have used that for anything.
0:11:50 > 0:11:52I would like to put it into auction
0:11:52 > 0:11:55with an estimate of 100 to 150 on it.
0:11:55 > 0:11:59- Would you be happy with that estimate?- Yes, I would.
0:11:59 > 0:12:02We'll put a reserve price of perhaps 80 on it.
0:12:02 > 0:12:07- Would you be happy with that?- Yes. I wouldn't want to go below that.
0:12:07 > 0:12:09I absolutely love it...
0:12:09 > 0:12:13and, in this jug, I have great expectations.
0:12:13 > 0:12:15And I would like a little more.
0:12:17 > 0:12:21Well, you never know, Val, your wish might be granted.
0:12:21 > 0:12:23Charles Noke is highly regarded
0:12:23 > 0:12:26and viewers might be interested to learn
0:12:26 > 0:12:28that his inspiration for this pattern
0:12:28 > 0:12:32came from Robert William Buss's painting Dickens' Dream,
0:12:32 > 0:12:36showing the author surrounded by the characters he had created.
0:12:36 > 0:12:40Buss died before he could finish it in 1875.
0:12:40 > 0:12:41With this history attached,
0:12:41 > 0:12:46I'm sure Val's jug won't fall on hard times in the saleroom.
0:12:46 > 0:12:48But before we make our way there,
0:12:48 > 0:12:51let's have a quick reminder of the items we're taking with us.
0:12:54 > 0:12:56We've got that pretty diamond brooch
0:12:56 > 0:12:58that Janet is hoping to trade in
0:12:58 > 0:13:01for a much more practical lawnmower.
0:13:01 > 0:13:04Then there's Pat's oriental ivory counter box
0:13:04 > 0:13:06made in the 19th century.
0:13:06 > 0:13:10It complies with the international CITES agreement on trade.
0:13:10 > 0:13:14But is David right about ivory prices decreasing?
0:13:16 > 0:13:20And our third item is that Royal Doulton Dickens' Dream jug,
0:13:20 > 0:13:22designed by Charles Noke.
0:13:22 > 0:13:24With all those famous names attached,
0:13:24 > 0:13:27it's sure to attract lots of interest from the bidders.
0:13:33 > 0:13:35We're heading 20 miles south east
0:13:35 > 0:13:38as the crow flies to our auction today.
0:13:38 > 0:13:41This takes you straight through one of Europe's largest wildlife
0:13:41 > 0:13:42conservation parks,
0:13:42 > 0:13:44Whipsnade zoo,
0:13:44 > 0:13:47home to around 70 different species of bird,
0:13:47 > 0:13:50as we found out back in 2009.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54But we can't hang out with our feathered friends today,
0:13:54 > 0:13:56because waiting for us at Tring Market Auctions
0:13:56 > 0:13:59is auctioneer Stephen Hearn.
0:14:00 > 0:14:02And going first under his hammer,
0:14:02 > 0:14:04or should I say pencil,
0:14:04 > 0:14:06is Janet's glamorous diamond brooch.
0:14:07 > 0:14:10It's from the '40s. It's absolutely stunning,
0:14:10 > 0:14:13but we do know brooches sometimes struggle.
0:14:13 > 0:14:16This is where the jeopardy comes into the auction room.
0:14:16 > 0:14:20- It's so exciting. We've got a big caratage in that brooch...- Yes.
0:14:20 > 0:14:22..so, that's going to help us.
0:14:22 > 0:14:26- But we have no big significant single stones...- No.
0:14:26 > 0:14:29..but cumulatively it's absolutely divine.
0:14:29 > 0:14:33- We're going to put that to the test. Ready?- OK.- Here we go! This is it.
0:14:33 > 0:14:36A white gold diamond floral spray brooch.
0:14:36 > 0:14:38I want about 500 for it.
0:14:38 > 0:14:42300 bid, then. 320, 350. Are you 80, sir?
0:14:42 > 0:14:45At 380, 400 now. 420, is it?
0:14:45 > 0:14:46We're getting closer.
0:14:46 > 0:14:48420, 450.
0:14:48 > 0:14:51At 450, sir has it, then. I'm selling.
0:14:51 > 0:14:55At £450, then. Thank you.
0:14:55 > 0:14:58- We've sold it for £450. - That's great.
0:14:58 > 0:15:01- It was close, wasn't it? - It was.
0:15:01 > 0:15:03But it climbed and it climbed and it climbed.
0:15:03 > 0:15:06It doesn't really matter. It's gone. That's the best thing.
0:15:06 > 0:15:09- OK. Happy?- Yes, thank you. - Well done.
0:15:09 > 0:15:13I hope that means Janet can get her much-needed lawnmower.
0:15:13 > 0:15:16Now, there's been a change of plan on our next item.
0:15:16 > 0:15:18Pat has increased the reserve.
0:15:20 > 0:15:21At £40-£60,
0:15:21 > 0:15:24put on by David at the valuation day,
0:15:24 > 0:15:28you have upped that valuation.
0:15:28 > 0:15:33- You cheeky monkey. - She wasn't happy. Were you, Pat?- No.
0:15:33 > 0:15:35Go on, get stuck in.
0:15:35 > 0:15:37She was going to give you a telling off on the day.
0:15:37 > 0:15:39- I could send it coming. - I think you're both right.
0:15:39 > 0:15:41I'm going to sit on the fence with this.
0:15:41 > 0:15:42Let's put it to the test right now.
0:15:42 > 0:15:46What about £70 for those? 50? 40 we bid, then.
0:15:46 > 0:15:5140, I have. 5, 55, 65, 70, 5, 80...
0:15:51 > 0:15:52Blimey, it's doing well.
0:15:52 > 0:15:555, 90, 5, 100...
0:15:55 > 0:15:57£100! It's got to 100!
0:15:57 > 0:16:00And 10. At £110, then.
0:16:00 > 0:16:03At 110, it's going down nice and slow...
0:16:03 > 0:16:06For £110, then...
0:16:06 > 0:16:08- You've got a new career, Pat. - Have I?
0:16:08 > 0:16:11You didn't need to worry, did you?
0:16:11 > 0:16:15- You see, you let the market decide. £110.- Lovely.
0:16:15 > 0:16:17- That's fantastic, isn't it? - Fantastic.
0:16:17 > 0:16:20- You're a bit in shock, aren't you? - I am.
0:16:22 > 0:16:25Shocked, but clearly pleased.
0:16:25 > 0:16:28Now, auctioneer Stephen Hearn likes our next lot so much
0:16:28 > 0:16:30he's upped the estimate
0:16:30 > 0:16:34from £150 to £300-£400.
0:16:35 > 0:16:38So, when the auctioneer rang you up and said, "Look, Valerie,
0:16:38 > 0:16:41"I think we should say £300-£400,"
0:16:41 > 0:16:44did you go, "Stephen, I love you.
0:16:44 > 0:16:46"You've made my day. And now I'm not going to sell it,
0:16:46 > 0:16:49"because it's worth so much. I've changed my mind." Did you?
0:16:49 > 0:16:52I do think about whether I should sell it,
0:16:52 > 0:16:54but I don't like it, so...
0:16:54 > 0:16:57Do you know what? I don't like it, either. Do you like it?
0:16:57 > 0:17:01- I think it's absolutely fascinating. - But you wouldn't want to own it?
0:17:01 > 0:17:04- I would have it, yeah. - I'd have the 400.
0:17:05 > 0:17:09- And so would Valerie, wouldn't you?- I would.- Yes.
0:17:09 > 0:17:11He's obviously confident, he knows his market.
0:17:11 > 0:17:14He obviously knows the collectors around here.
0:17:14 > 0:17:17We're going to find them right now, because it's going under the hammer.
0:17:17 > 0:17:18This is it.
0:17:18 > 0:17:22We have a very colourful Royal Doulton Charles Dickens' Dream jug.
0:17:22 > 0:17:25I'm nervous. I'm trembling for you, Valerie.
0:17:25 > 0:17:29What about £300 for it. 200? 200 we bid for it, then.
0:17:29 > 0:17:34At 210, 220, 230. Are you 40?
0:17:34 > 0:17:36At 240, 250, 260,
0:17:36 > 0:17:40270, 280, 290...
0:17:40 > 0:17:41300...
0:17:41 > 0:17:44At £290...
0:17:44 > 0:17:48I'm going to sell at £290. Thank you.
0:17:48 > 0:17:50Hang on... Yes!
0:17:50 > 0:17:53Sold to the gentleman over there. £290.
0:17:53 > 0:17:56- Thumbs up. That's very good. - Ah, that was excellent.
0:17:56 > 0:17:58That's more than their original estimate.
0:17:58 > 0:18:01- Oh, rub it in. Go on. - Much more.
0:18:01 > 0:18:04Our experts don't always get it right, Val.
0:18:04 > 0:18:07As we know, it's not an exact science.
0:18:07 > 0:18:09I'm just glad it did so well.
0:18:10 > 0:18:13Auctioneer Stephen Hearn working his magic on the rostrum.
0:18:13 > 0:18:15Three lots down, three more to go.
0:18:15 > 0:18:17So, do not go away.
0:18:17 > 0:18:19Now, not far from here is a place called Woburn Abbey.
0:18:19 > 0:18:21You must have heard of that.
0:18:21 > 0:18:23But did you know it contains the largest collection
0:18:23 > 0:18:27of Canaletto paintings on display anywhere in the world?
0:18:27 > 0:18:29Now, I went along on a voyage of discovery to find out more -
0:18:29 > 0:18:33why such a collection ended up there and why Canaletto was considered
0:18:33 > 0:18:37to be one of the finest landscape painters of his time.
0:18:41 > 0:18:46Woburn Abbey, built on the site of an old monastic religious house,
0:18:46 > 0:18:48has been home to the Dukes of Bedford
0:18:48 > 0:18:50for nearly 400 years.
0:18:51 > 0:18:53Now, back in the 18th century,
0:18:53 > 0:18:56a necessary part of the education of any Duke
0:18:56 > 0:18:58would be the grand tour of Europe -
0:18:58 > 0:19:00something of a rite of passage
0:19:00 > 0:19:03for young male members of the aristocracy.
0:19:03 > 0:19:07To experience and study foreign cultures,
0:19:07 > 0:19:10which often meant travelling around Europe for two to three years.
0:19:13 > 0:19:16And the main highlight of the grand tour was Venice,
0:19:16 > 0:19:19a magnificent city floating on the Adriatic.
0:19:19 > 0:19:21To the 18th-century visitors,
0:19:21 > 0:19:23Venice was a place of wonder.
0:19:23 > 0:19:26With a never-ending carnival season,
0:19:26 > 0:19:28countless theatres and casinos,
0:19:28 > 0:19:31Venice was the city of pleasure.
0:19:31 > 0:19:34And one visitors wished to remember.
0:19:39 > 0:19:41It was into this world
0:19:41 > 0:19:43and the desire for souvenirs
0:19:43 > 0:19:46that Canaletto emerged in the 1720s.
0:19:46 > 0:19:48The son of a theatrical scene painter,
0:19:48 > 0:19:51he turned his back on the family business
0:19:51 > 0:19:55to concentrate on the artform of veduta, or view painting,
0:19:55 > 0:19:59recording the daily life of the city and its people.
0:20:02 > 0:20:06Showing his genius early on, Canaletto quickly found success.
0:20:06 > 0:20:08His brilliance brought him to the attention
0:20:08 > 0:20:12of travelling foreign visitors, especially the English.
0:20:12 > 0:20:15When Lord John Russell, the future fourth Duke of Bedford,
0:20:15 > 0:20:19arrived in Venice towards the end of his grand tour in 1731,
0:20:19 > 0:20:21he had a meeting with Canaletto's agent.
0:20:21 > 0:20:26This meeting led to one of Canaletto's greatest commissions.
0:20:29 > 0:20:32The Duke purchased a staggering 24 pictures -
0:20:32 > 0:20:37the only grand tourist to buy this number of paintings from Canaletto.
0:20:37 > 0:20:39Transported back to Britain by ship,
0:20:39 > 0:20:42they eventually went on display here
0:20:42 > 0:20:44at the Duke's family seat at Woburn,
0:20:44 > 0:20:48where they remain in the same family ownership to this day.
0:20:51 > 0:20:53Joining me to enjoy this unique collection
0:20:53 > 0:20:57is the chief curator of London's Dulwich Picture Gallery,
0:20:57 > 0:20:58Dr Xavier Bray,
0:20:58 > 0:21:03who has spent the last 20 years working with old master paintings.
0:21:04 > 0:21:08Xavier, this Canaletto dominates the room, doesn't it?
0:21:08 > 0:21:10It's a spectacular carnival of Ascension.
0:21:10 > 0:21:12Now, we know the Duke went to Venice
0:21:12 > 0:21:15to witness this grand civic event.
0:21:15 > 0:21:18It really is like theatre on water, isn't it?
0:21:18 > 0:21:20It is. A lot of these English tourists
0:21:20 > 0:21:24went to Venice especially to witness these great celebrations.
0:21:24 > 0:21:25So, what exactly happens?
0:21:25 > 0:21:27It's a religious festival.
0:21:27 > 0:21:28It's the ascension of the Lord,
0:21:28 > 0:21:32when Jesus goes up to heaven 40 days after Easter.
0:21:32 > 0:21:35But the Venetians like to mix a bit of fiesta with it.
0:21:35 > 0:21:39What they do is that they have this wonderful ornate boat...
0:21:39 > 0:21:41The gilded one in the centre of the picture?
0:21:41 > 0:21:43Yeah, which is called the Bucintoro.
0:21:43 > 0:21:47There are bits of pomp as the Doge and Senate climb onto it.
0:21:47 > 0:21:49The thing that I really notice, on the right-hand corner,
0:21:49 > 0:21:51is that lady there with the fan
0:21:51 > 0:21:55laying down in her boat just enjoying the event.
0:21:55 > 0:21:57This is what's so great about Canaletto.
0:21:57 > 0:21:59He's got a fiesta, a big celebration,
0:21:59 > 0:22:01but at the same time he livens it up with anecdotes.
0:22:01 > 0:22:05Then you've got a man with another lady with a beautiful parasol
0:22:05 > 0:22:07and you just get these wonderful, fluid shadows.
0:22:07 > 0:22:11So, he's very much about sensations, texture and light effects.
0:22:11 > 0:22:15When you look at Canaletto's work, what do you look at?
0:22:15 > 0:22:18What makes a good Canaletto? Why was he so good?
0:22:18 > 0:22:20Canaletto was really good draughtsman,
0:22:20 > 0:22:22so he would do a lot of preparatory drawings.
0:22:22 > 0:22:24What he is very good at is doing architecture,
0:22:24 > 0:22:26getting the perspectives right.
0:22:26 > 0:22:28He's also very clever. He combines different viewpoints.
0:22:28 > 0:22:31And the more you look at it, the more you find details, anecdotes...
0:22:31 > 0:22:33He really brings it all to life.
0:22:33 > 0:22:36And that's what I think makes him so different to any other
0:22:36 > 0:22:39view painters at the time - it's full of life.
0:22:39 > 0:22:41So this is an excellent way,
0:22:41 > 0:22:45for the Duke to buy into what was happening in the day.
0:22:45 > 0:22:47This is buying into the culture of Venice?
0:22:47 > 0:22:50Yeah, a bit like postcards, but painted postcards,
0:22:50 > 0:22:55which will allow him to relive his experience in Venice
0:22:55 > 0:22:58when he's back in London or here at Woburn Abbey.
0:22:58 > 0:23:02So, a purchase to remind him of his experiences on his travels,
0:23:02 > 0:23:06which can also be said of A Regatta On The Grand Canal,
0:23:06 > 0:23:09which shows the one-oared light gondola race.
0:23:09 > 0:23:10One of the largest paintings,
0:23:10 > 0:23:13it's a fascinating example of Canaletto
0:23:13 > 0:23:15at his most decorative.
0:23:19 > 0:23:22So, what do we know about Canaletto the man?
0:23:22 > 0:23:25Well, we actually don't know that much about what he was like,
0:23:25 > 0:23:28in terms of character, but he was incredibly productive.
0:23:28 > 0:23:31He was very successful in the 1730s.
0:23:31 > 0:23:33He comes to England for 10 years,
0:23:33 > 0:23:37lives in Soho, and works for British aristocrats.
0:23:37 > 0:23:39King George III wants his works later on
0:23:39 > 0:23:41and buys a whole collection of Canalettos.
0:23:41 > 0:23:47Even Catherine the Great from Russia is dying to buy his work.
0:23:47 > 0:23:51Canaletto today is a big name. He sells for very big prices.
0:23:51 > 0:23:55In fact, a well preserved Canaletto in excellent condition
0:23:55 > 0:23:59is worth between £3-£5 million at auction today.
0:24:01 > 0:24:05There are 24 Canalettos in the collection here.
0:24:05 > 0:24:07If you had the chance of taking one home,
0:24:07 > 0:24:09which one would you like to live with?
0:24:09 > 0:24:11It would have to be this one here,
0:24:11 > 0:24:13because it's...
0:24:13 > 0:24:16What Canaletto normally paints is a grand Canal -
0:24:16 > 0:24:18the main stage of Venice -
0:24:18 > 0:24:20but he also does the backstage.
0:24:20 > 0:24:23And this is the kind of view that you would really
0:24:23 > 0:24:25have to go off the main itinerary.
0:24:25 > 0:24:27This is off the canal.
0:24:27 > 0:24:30You can see the square looks as if it's just been flooded
0:24:30 > 0:24:34and the water has gone, but it's left a bit of a green tinge,
0:24:34 > 0:24:36which is probably the algae or something like that.
0:24:36 > 0:24:38But it's the fact that you've got the shops,
0:24:38 > 0:24:40the laundry hanging out of the windows.
0:24:40 > 0:24:43This is the backstage of Venice - the darker side.
0:24:43 > 0:24:46An aspect of Venice that only somebody like the Duke of Bedford
0:24:46 > 0:24:50would have appreciated and wanted Canaletto to depict for him.
0:24:53 > 0:24:56And I gather this is the current Duke's favourite?
0:24:56 > 0:24:57It is. It's a good choice.
0:24:57 > 0:24:59It shows the Arsenale,
0:24:59 > 0:25:03the Arsenal where the shipbuilding of Venice happened.
0:25:04 > 0:25:08It's a symbolic view of the power of Venice at the time.
0:25:08 > 0:25:10The fact that they dominated the seas,
0:25:10 > 0:25:11particularly the Mediterranean.
0:25:11 > 0:25:14So, it's a clever choice.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17And it's also one of Canaletto's most beautiful views.
0:25:17 > 0:25:19He enjoyed a very successful career.
0:25:19 > 0:25:21He achieved a lot in his lifetime.
0:25:21 > 0:25:23Was he a wealthy man?
0:25:23 > 0:25:24We don't think he was. We don't know.
0:25:24 > 0:25:27But he lived in a very tiny apartment.
0:25:27 > 0:25:30He probably wanted to avoid paying tax,
0:25:30 > 0:25:33so declared himself poor in a state of bankruptcy.
0:25:33 > 0:25:35- He never got married. - And he never got married.
0:25:35 > 0:25:37He was very much on his own, so he didn't have any children.
0:25:37 > 0:25:40I think he was somebody who was dedicated to his art.
0:25:40 > 0:25:42He was dedicated to painting Venice.
0:25:42 > 0:25:45I think he found solace through what he painted
0:25:45 > 0:25:49rather than monetary terms that he could turn into a palazzo
0:25:49 > 0:25:51and have musicians play where he has painted,
0:25:51 > 0:25:53which is what other painters did do.
0:25:53 > 0:25:55He was, I think, more interested in painting
0:25:55 > 0:25:57rather than living in style.
0:25:57 > 0:26:00So, he is a great artist who lived for his work?
0:26:00 > 0:26:01Very much so, yeah.
0:26:02 > 0:26:03In retrospect,
0:26:03 > 0:26:05Canaletto was very fortunate
0:26:05 > 0:26:08to be able to live for his work.
0:26:08 > 0:26:09In 1797,
0:26:09 > 0:26:11a few years after his death,
0:26:11 > 0:26:14Napoleon had the head of his French army surround Venice.
0:26:14 > 0:26:16And the Grand Council surrendered.
0:26:20 > 0:26:23The Bucintoro, the shining symbol of Venetian government,
0:26:23 > 0:26:25was commandeered by the French
0:26:25 > 0:26:26and stripped of its gold
0:26:26 > 0:26:29before they sent it up in flames.
0:26:31 > 0:26:33With war raging across Europe,
0:26:33 > 0:26:34the tradition of the Grand Tour
0:26:34 > 0:26:37came to an abrupt end.
0:26:39 > 0:26:41And without its chief source of patronage,
0:26:41 > 0:26:44veduta painting in Venice died away.
0:26:47 > 0:26:49Canaletto came into his prime just in time
0:26:49 > 0:26:53to capture the last golden days of the Venetian Republic
0:26:53 > 0:26:56in all its pomp and circumstance.
0:26:56 > 0:26:58And the fourth Duke of Bedford had the courage
0:26:58 > 0:27:00and, let's face it, the cash
0:27:00 > 0:27:04to make such a brave and timely commission.
0:27:04 > 0:27:07And because these three elements came together at once,
0:27:07 > 0:27:10this unique collection here at Woburn exists.
0:27:10 > 0:27:13And these beautifully crafted pictures
0:27:13 > 0:27:17have gone on to inspire generations of artists,
0:27:17 > 0:27:21art lovers and writers for nearly 300 years.
0:27:32 > 0:27:35Welcome back to our valuation day here at Wrest Park
0:27:35 > 0:27:37in the glorious formal gardens.
0:27:37 > 0:27:40We've already found and valued hundreds of antiques,
0:27:40 > 0:27:43so right now it's time to catch up with our experts
0:27:43 > 0:27:46to find some more treasures to take off to auction.
0:27:46 > 0:27:49And, as you can see, I'm still surrounded by hundreds of people,
0:27:49 > 0:27:52so we do have our work cut out.
0:27:52 > 0:27:54I think we'd better get on with it, don't you?
0:27:54 > 0:27:57Let's hand the proceedings over to our experts.
0:27:57 > 0:28:00And down by the long water overlooking the 18th-century
0:28:00 > 0:28:05Baroque pavilion, David Harper has found a beautiful spot for a chat.
0:28:07 > 0:28:11Oh, Lilian, this is right up my street.
0:28:11 > 0:28:12Isn't it gorgeous?
0:28:12 > 0:28:14I think it's... I love the shape of it.
0:28:14 > 0:28:19- It's a very good shape and suits the house just perfectly.- Absolutely.
0:28:19 > 0:28:22- Do you love it? - I do like it very much,
0:28:22 > 0:28:25but I can't find a place in the house to put it,
0:28:25 > 0:28:26so it's been in a cupboard.
0:28:26 > 0:28:29- No!- Yes!- It's a gorgeous thing.
0:28:29 > 0:28:32- You know that it's Chinese... - Yes.- Where did you buy it from?
0:28:32 > 0:28:36- In an auction room.- Right. - A job lot.- Oh, right.
0:28:36 > 0:28:39- So you got other things with it? OK. When was that?- 35 to 40 years ago.
0:28:39 > 0:28:42- OK. How much did you pay for it? - I can't remember.
0:28:42 > 0:28:44- I know it wasn't a lot.- No, no.
0:28:44 > 0:28:48- No more than about £28 or more for the lot.- For the lot.
0:28:48 > 0:28:51Well, I just think it's absolutely delicious.
0:28:51 > 0:28:53I love the colours, I love the shape of it -
0:28:53 > 0:28:55it's a hexagonal shape,
0:28:55 > 0:28:57which is much rarer
0:28:57 > 0:28:59than the typical baluster vases.
0:28:59 > 0:29:02The cobalt blue is just delicious,
0:29:02 > 0:29:06the decoration is gorgeous - look at that terribly elegant lady.
0:29:06 > 0:29:09- Just like you, Lilian. - LILIAN LAUGHS
0:29:09 > 0:29:12She is elegant. That's what I liked about her.
0:29:12 > 0:29:15She's the centrepiece, but look around the outside edge.
0:29:15 > 0:29:17Can you see that decoration there?
0:29:17 > 0:29:19Can you see what that is?
0:29:19 > 0:29:21All the way down the side of the body.
0:29:21 > 0:29:22Ah.
0:29:22 > 0:29:24Oh, you've never spotted him?
0:29:24 > 0:29:26- No.- It's a bat.
0:29:26 > 0:29:28Now can you see him?
0:29:28 > 0:29:31I can see now, turning it that way round.
0:29:31 > 0:29:34- But I couldn't see it the other way. - No? Well, there you go.
0:29:34 > 0:29:37The bat in Chinese culture is an incredibly auspicious creature
0:29:37 > 0:29:41representing good luck, long life, happiness...
0:29:41 > 0:29:43- Never realised they were bats. - Well, there you go.
0:29:43 > 0:29:46Now, what about the condition? What do you think about that?
0:29:46 > 0:29:48- Well, it's pretty poor. Is it? - It's not great.
0:29:48 > 0:29:50Hmm. But it's very old.
0:29:50 > 0:29:52What date do you feel it is?
0:29:52 > 0:29:55I think it's quite, quite old, but I couldn't really say.
0:29:55 > 0:29:56About 17th-century?
0:29:56 > 0:29:59Well, I'd like to think it was 17th-century.
0:29:59 > 0:30:04That says, in Chinese, made during the Kangxi period.
0:30:04 > 0:30:07Which is, rule of thumb, 1660 to 1720.
0:30:07 > 0:30:11So, you're bang on in its date.
0:30:11 > 0:30:15But Chinese markings are notoriously difficult,
0:30:15 > 0:30:17because the Chinese, for centuries,
0:30:17 > 0:30:20have marked pieces with earlier character marks,
0:30:20 > 0:30:23as a sign of reverence to their long gone ancestors.
0:30:23 > 0:30:26So, it's very complicated. So, there we have it.
0:30:26 > 0:30:29I'm going to have to describe it, to be safe, as 19th century
0:30:29 > 0:30:30with an earlier mark.
0:30:30 > 0:30:32It could make a few hundred,
0:30:32 > 0:30:35but I think I'd like to get it in at 50 to 90.
0:30:35 > 0:30:38Which still leaves you profit, I believe.
0:30:38 > 0:30:39Does it not?
0:30:39 > 0:30:42- Does it?- Oh, yes. - Ah, well, there you go.
0:30:42 > 0:30:44Your face dropped, that's all.
0:30:44 > 0:30:47What do you want? £1,000 or something?
0:30:47 > 0:30:50Well, I'll accept £1,000.
0:30:50 > 0:30:54- Well, you know what? Odder things happen every day.- Yes.- OK.
0:30:54 > 0:30:58- Shall we go have some fun at the auction?- Why not?- How exciting.
0:30:58 > 0:31:02David was quite right when he said the Chinese vase suited Wrest.
0:31:02 > 0:31:05If we take a quick break from the valuations
0:31:05 > 0:31:08to peek inside the house, I'll show you why.
0:31:10 > 0:31:13Now, since the 1930s, most of the rooms on the upper floors
0:31:13 > 0:31:16here at Wrest have been used for offices.
0:31:16 > 0:31:19Very few original features remain.
0:31:19 > 0:31:22However, something very special did survive
0:31:22 > 0:31:24and it's just in here.
0:31:25 > 0:31:28And just look at this! Isn't it spectacular?
0:31:28 > 0:31:32I'm surrounded by hand-painted Chinese wallpaper
0:31:32 > 0:31:35and it really is quite tremendous to be standing in here
0:31:35 > 0:31:37taking in all of this.
0:31:37 > 0:31:39Now, this room was originally all boarded over
0:31:39 > 0:31:42until curators of the English Heritage
0:31:42 > 0:31:45pulled some of the boards away to reveal this.
0:31:45 > 0:31:47They knew what was there, but they hadn't seen the whole room.
0:31:47 > 0:31:50And here we are with a view of 360 degrees,
0:31:50 > 0:31:53taking in this whole story.
0:31:53 > 0:31:58Family records suggest this was first hung in 1792
0:31:58 > 0:32:00in the original house on this site,
0:32:00 > 0:32:04and then rehung in the new house here in the 1830s,
0:32:04 > 0:32:07where it's been ever since.
0:32:07 > 0:32:10It was the height of luxury, it was the height of expense
0:32:10 > 0:32:13and everybody wanted a flavour of the East.
0:32:13 > 0:32:14It was the thing to have.
0:32:15 > 0:32:20There really is a whole story of Chinese life being told here.
0:32:20 > 0:32:22Everybody at work.
0:32:22 > 0:32:23There's the butcher there,
0:32:23 > 0:32:26there are some men hunting and smoking a pipe,
0:32:26 > 0:32:28birds of paradise, exotic plants...
0:32:28 > 0:32:33things that people in England didn't know about and they were hungry for.
0:32:33 > 0:32:36I'm so pleased this has survived
0:32:36 > 0:32:38for everybody to see today.
0:32:42 > 0:32:45Back down in the sunshine of the valuation area,
0:32:45 > 0:32:48one of our experts is taking this hot weather in her stride.
0:32:50 > 0:32:54Davina, give me a flutter.
0:32:54 > 0:32:56That is perfect.
0:32:56 > 0:32:59Well, it's a very warm day today
0:32:59 > 0:33:02and these fans are perfect for keeping us cool,
0:33:02 > 0:33:06but for me, the main use of a fan
0:33:06 > 0:33:08- is to flirt. - DAVINA LAUGHS
0:33:08 > 0:33:09Very much.
0:33:09 > 0:33:11Welcome to Flog It!
0:33:11 > 0:33:14Tell me, how did you come by these?
0:33:14 > 0:33:17I saw one fan and I fell in love
0:33:17 > 0:33:19with the prettiness,
0:33:19 > 0:33:21the femininity of it.
0:33:21 > 0:33:22That started it.
0:33:22 > 0:33:24So, for about 10 years,
0:33:24 > 0:33:26we went to antique fairs and bought fans.
0:33:26 > 0:33:28But then we downsized
0:33:28 > 0:33:32and put it in a cupboard for 22 years.
0:33:32 > 0:33:35Tell me, Davina, what's your favourite one?
0:33:35 > 0:33:37I think I've got two.
0:33:37 > 0:33:39There's this one, because of the mirror,
0:33:39 > 0:33:41and this one here,
0:33:41 > 0:33:44because it's lovely when it's shut and open.
0:33:44 > 0:33:48So, what we've got here is a sort of stepped building,
0:33:48 > 0:33:52- almost like the Chrysler building in America.- Yes.
0:33:52 > 0:33:54And when we open it...
0:33:57 > 0:34:01These sticks are made of bone
0:34:01 > 0:34:05and we have this lovely organdie here
0:34:05 > 0:34:09with little sequins and little pieces of embroidery.
0:34:09 > 0:34:11This is a 19th-century fan
0:34:11 > 0:34:14and you have more in your collection,
0:34:14 > 0:34:18but we have mainly 19th-century
0:34:18 > 0:34:21examples here.
0:34:21 > 0:34:24The one with the mirrors is silver overlay,
0:34:24 > 0:34:27so we have this detail here
0:34:27 > 0:34:32and again a hand-painted interior scene.
0:34:32 > 0:34:36And, of course, an ostrich feather fan
0:34:36 > 0:34:40is always froufrou and fabulous.
0:34:40 > 0:34:43So, it's a great wee collection.
0:34:43 > 0:34:45Price on them...
0:34:45 > 0:34:49I wouldn't say there are any here of high-value.
0:34:49 > 0:34:52I would like to put them into auction
0:34:52 > 0:34:56with a very conservative estimate...
0:34:57 > 0:35:00..of between £100 and £200.
0:35:00 > 0:35:05£100 and £200 is probably your best estimate to give.
0:35:05 > 0:35:07- Would you be happy with that? - Absolutely.
0:35:07 > 0:35:08I want a reserve, obviously.
0:35:08 > 0:35:11- We'll put a reserve of £100...- Yes.
0:35:11 > 0:35:14- ..and I'll see you at the auction. - You will.
0:35:14 > 0:35:18And, with any luck, there might be a couple of good-looking blokes
0:35:18 > 0:35:20that we can flirt with.
0:35:20 > 0:35:22Let's hope so.
0:35:22 > 0:35:24You don't have to wait until then, Anita.
0:35:24 > 0:35:26I'm sure I can rustle you up
0:35:26 > 0:35:29a couple of dapper gents right now.
0:35:29 > 0:35:31Love that hat!
0:35:31 > 0:35:36Well, Rod, I can safely tell you that is a very posh cup and saucer.
0:35:36 > 0:35:39And exactly the kind of cup and saucer
0:35:39 > 0:35:42that the owners of a property like this would use.
0:35:42 > 0:35:46- Do you know much about it? - Not a lot, no. I know it's Meissen.
0:35:46 > 0:35:49I presume it's a Victorian period.
0:35:49 > 0:35:53And I suspect it's a one-off display item.
0:35:53 > 0:35:56I can't imagine anybody having a tea set,
0:35:56 > 0:35:58but they might have done. I don't know.
0:35:58 > 0:36:00Well, listen, that was designed to use.
0:36:00 > 0:36:02- To drink what?- I don't know.
0:36:02 > 0:36:06It's a little large for tea, because tea was a very expensive item.
0:36:06 > 0:36:11- Not tea or coffee. That was designed to drink chocolate.- Right.
0:36:11 > 0:36:14Isn't that lovely? The big fashion for drinking chocolate
0:36:14 > 0:36:16began in the 1600s.
0:36:16 > 0:36:19Incredibly expensive. All these chocolate houses
0:36:19 > 0:36:22and coffee and tea houses opened up all over London
0:36:22 > 0:36:25and the finest, grandest people
0:36:25 > 0:36:27would have drunk those drinks
0:36:27 > 0:36:30out of Meissen tea cups and saucers.
0:36:30 > 0:36:34Now, then, dating this stuff is terribly difficult.
0:36:34 > 0:36:37The marks, the crossed swords, change over time.
0:36:37 > 0:36:40That design certainly was made in the 18th century.
0:36:40 > 0:36:43But that particular piece, I believe,
0:36:43 > 0:36:46is a very late 19th century.
0:36:46 > 0:36:48It could even creep into the 20th century.
0:36:48 > 0:36:51That's the thing I didn't know - was it early or was it late?
0:36:51 > 0:36:54- It's late, but it's still Meissen. - Yes.
0:36:54 > 0:36:55Damage? A little damage.
0:36:55 > 0:36:57A little bit of damage, unfortunately.
0:36:57 > 0:36:59And, Rod, I've got to tell you,
0:36:59 > 0:37:01in this business with porcelain,
0:37:01 > 0:37:03damage can really kill it.
0:37:03 > 0:37:05Oh, yes, yes. I'm aware of that.
0:37:05 > 0:37:08There's one major problem here, before we get onto my assessment.
0:37:08 > 0:37:11That originally would have had a little cover decorated
0:37:11 > 0:37:14just the same on the top to keep the chocolate warm.
0:37:14 > 0:37:16So, there's a problem.
0:37:16 > 0:37:17But that explains something -
0:37:17 > 0:37:19my grandfather wasn't a wealthy man.
0:37:19 > 0:37:22He was a railway guard on the LMS.
0:37:22 > 0:37:26Therefore, it's very surprising that in his collection
0:37:26 > 0:37:28there would be something of this stature.
0:37:28 > 0:37:29So, where did that come from?
0:37:29 > 0:37:32Well, what used to happen was on a particular train,
0:37:32 > 0:37:34there was always a first-class compartment.
0:37:34 > 0:37:37There was a gentleman who always had a top hat,
0:37:37 > 0:37:38a very expensive gold watch
0:37:38 > 0:37:42and he always left his Connoisseur magazine on the seat.
0:37:42 > 0:37:44Grandad used to collect them and he'd read them
0:37:44 > 0:37:48and there was the knowledge to go and sort the porcelain out.
0:37:48 > 0:37:50That is fantastic.
0:37:50 > 0:37:52And the top was missing,
0:37:52 > 0:37:56therefore he was able to buy it at a very inexpensive price.
0:37:56 > 0:37:59He probably paid no more than three shillings, half a crown.
0:37:59 > 0:38:01How long have you owned it for?
0:38:01 > 0:38:03I've owned it for about four or five years.
0:38:03 > 0:38:06The trick to selling at auction is to be brave
0:38:06 > 0:38:09and to estimate it sensibly to give the buyers a bit of hope value.
0:38:09 > 0:38:13And I instinctively would go 40-60, 50-70.
0:38:13 > 0:38:15It's cheap...
0:38:15 > 0:38:16..and it might make more and it might not.
0:38:16 > 0:38:18- Happy with 40-60?- Absolutely.
0:38:18 > 0:38:20- Going to just let it go? - That's right. Yep.
0:38:20 > 0:38:22I like your style. Thank you. I'll see you at the auction.
0:38:22 > 0:38:24All right, then. Jolly good. Thanks a lot.
0:38:24 > 0:38:31MUSIC: Use Somebody by Kings Of Leon
0:38:31 > 0:38:34Well, what a marvellous day we've had here at Wrest Park.
0:38:34 > 0:38:36Everybody has thoroughly enjoyed themselves, haven't you?
0:38:36 > 0:38:38- ALL:- Yes! - Glorious surroundings, as well.
0:38:38 > 0:38:40A wonderful historical backdrop.
0:38:40 > 0:38:42Just look at that as a view.
0:38:42 > 0:38:44But, sadly, it is time to say goodbye
0:38:44 > 0:38:46to this wonderful historical setting
0:38:46 > 0:38:49as we go over to the auction for the very last time today
0:38:49 > 0:38:51and put those final valuations to the test.
0:38:51 > 0:38:54Here's a quick recap of what's going under the hammer...
0:38:55 > 0:38:57There's the Chinese vase.
0:38:57 > 0:38:59Will the bidders love it as much as David Harper does?
0:39:02 > 0:39:06And what about this collection of mostly 19th-century fans?
0:39:06 > 0:39:10As Anita puts it, "It's very froufrou and fabulous."
0:39:10 > 0:39:13And finally there's Rod's Meissen cup and saucer.
0:39:13 > 0:39:16A very conservative estimate by David,
0:39:16 > 0:39:19this could be the one to watch.
0:39:21 > 0:39:22Back in the saleroom,
0:39:22 > 0:39:26auctioneer Stephen Hearn is still wielding that pencil.
0:39:26 > 0:39:28And the next lot under his graphite
0:39:28 > 0:39:31is Lillian's Chinese vase.
0:39:31 > 0:39:33- Very nice piece.- Really?- Yes.
0:39:33 > 0:39:35I don't think there's a lot of money on this.
0:39:35 > 0:39:37I can see this doing a bit more.
0:39:37 > 0:39:39We were talking about this, weren't we?
0:39:39 > 0:39:40We think it's got legs, potentially.
0:39:40 > 0:39:44It's the shape, is quite a rare shape.
0:39:44 > 0:39:47Architecturally, it stands well. That's what it's all about.
0:39:47 > 0:39:50- Right, let's put it to the test, shall we? Happy?- Yes.
0:39:50 > 0:39:51Right, let's flog it. Here we go.
0:39:51 > 0:39:54Now, we have got the baluster vase.
0:39:54 > 0:39:55What about that one?
0:39:55 > 0:39:56I think £100 for it.
0:39:56 > 0:39:5950, 60, 70, 80, 90...
0:39:59 > 0:40:01Going to be 100, is it?
0:40:01 > 0:40:04- At £90... - £90!- Really?
0:40:04 > 0:40:06100. 100, I bid.
0:40:06 > 0:40:08At 100, then. It's yours, Sir.
0:40:08 > 0:40:10For £100, thank you.
0:40:10 > 0:40:12£100 and it sold!
0:40:12 > 0:40:14Gone! That's all right, isn't it? Even with a little chip.
0:40:14 > 0:40:16You know, I'd be a little bit dubious
0:40:16 > 0:40:19if it wasn't chipped for 19th-century.
0:40:19 > 0:40:20You'd be asking questions, wouldn't you?
0:40:20 > 0:40:22Thumbs up!
0:40:26 > 0:40:28I'm really glad Lilian's happy.
0:40:28 > 0:40:30Now, on this hot day at the auction
0:40:30 > 0:40:32something is telling me Davina's lot
0:40:32 > 0:40:33might do quite well.
0:40:33 > 0:40:37So, our auctioneer Stephen has slightly upped the estimate.
0:40:38 > 0:40:42- We had a reserve at the valuation day of £100.- That's right.
0:40:42 > 0:40:45Stephen the auctioneer has raised that to £150.
0:40:45 > 0:40:48So, good luck. We're going under the hammer right now.
0:40:48 > 0:40:52Where do we start? 100, 80, 90, 100...
0:40:52 > 0:40:5410, 20, 30, 40...
0:40:54 > 0:40:59140, 150, 60, 70 for Madam, 80...
0:40:59 > 0:41:03Madam has them then. I'm going to sell them.
0:41:03 > 0:41:04They're going down at 180.
0:41:04 > 0:41:06If there is no further bid, then they're yours
0:41:06 > 0:41:08for £180, then...
0:41:08 > 0:41:11Well done. Spot on, Anita.
0:41:11 > 0:41:14We didn't really need to raise it, did we? But there you go.
0:41:14 > 0:41:16Safety. Err on the side of caution.
0:41:16 > 0:41:20- Thank you very much.- £180. - Lovely. Thank you.- Thank you.
0:41:20 > 0:41:25And, finally, it's time for our very decorative last lot of the day.
0:41:25 > 0:41:27For our next lot, sadly our owner Rod can't be with us.
0:41:27 > 0:41:30But we do have the item. It's that Meissen cup and saucer.
0:41:30 > 0:41:34We had a valuation originally of, what, £40-£60?
0:41:34 > 0:41:3740-60. Yup. It's a "come and buy me" valuation.
0:41:37 > 0:41:39We had a revised estimate from the auctioneer
0:41:39 > 0:41:43- at £120-£160.- OK.
0:41:43 > 0:41:46- He obviously knows his local market. - And he likes it.
0:41:47 > 0:41:50There it is. A nice piece of Meissen, it carries good weight.
0:41:50 > 0:41:52- There's a lot of work in it. - Oh, I know.
0:41:52 > 0:41:55I think we ought to start somewhere around about 150 for it.
0:41:55 > 0:41:57100 for it. What about Sir?
0:41:57 > 0:41:58Yes. 120...
0:41:58 > 0:42:00150, 180. Are you 200?
0:42:00 > 0:42:01Wow!
0:42:01 > 0:42:03220, I have it.
0:42:03 > 0:42:06250, 280, 300, 320...
0:42:06 > 0:42:07Ooh!
0:42:07 > 0:42:08320, 350...
0:42:08 > 0:42:11- Phone lines.- Phone lines.
0:42:11 > 0:42:13350...400 in the room.
0:42:13 > 0:42:15400 is bid. 420 now.
0:42:15 > 0:42:17No?
0:42:17 > 0:42:22420, then. I'm going to sell it for £420.
0:42:22 > 0:42:25What a great result. £420.
0:42:25 > 0:42:26Well, it just goes to show...
0:42:26 > 0:42:29That is absolutely astonishing.
0:42:29 > 0:42:31But fantastic! Fantastic.
0:42:31 > 0:42:33Shall we give him a ring?
0:42:33 > 0:42:34You know, I think you should.
0:42:34 > 0:42:37I think you should say, "I slightly undercooked that."
0:42:37 > 0:42:38Yeah, but my defence is
0:42:38 > 0:42:42"come and get me," bring them in, get them bidding, Paul.
0:42:42 > 0:42:43That's the trick.
0:42:44 > 0:42:48Well, if it was a "come and buy me," it definitely worked,
0:42:48 > 0:42:51making ten times its original estimate.
0:42:51 > 0:42:54I think that's going to be a very nice surprise for Rod.
0:42:56 > 0:42:57Well, there you are. That's it.
0:42:57 > 0:42:59It's all over from Tring Market Auctions
0:42:59 > 0:43:02and we have some very happy owners.
0:43:02 > 0:43:04I hope you've enjoyed today's show.
0:43:04 > 0:43:06Now, if you've got something you want to sell,
0:43:06 > 0:43:09we want to flog it for you. Bring it along to one of our valuation days.
0:43:09 > 0:43:14Details of up-and-coming dates and venues can be found on our website.
0:43:14 > 0:43:15Just log onto...
0:43:16 > 0:43:19Follow the links. All the information will be there.
0:43:19 > 0:43:21We'd love to see you dust them down and bring them in.
0:43:21 > 0:43:23And keep an eye on your local press, as well.
0:43:23 > 0:43:26But, until then, goodbye from Tring Auction Rooms.