Garage find generates huge interest

19th January 2020

A rare Expressionist painting found languishing in a Somerset garage generated a huge level of interest when it was offered at the December sale of Antiques and Collectables at the Mendip Auction Rooms. The painting by Carlos Nadal (1917 – 1998) was found hidden in a garage amongst a collection of paintings belonging to the grandfather of the vendor. With a Certificate of Authenticity obtained from the Comite Nadal, the painting was offered with an estimate of £3000 – 5000 but fast bidding over the internet and telephone saw it achieve £6000.

There was a fabulous entry of almost 1000 lots and the sale was held over two days. An excellent entry of jewellery attracted strong interest in the build up to Christmas with a pair of single stud diamond earrings achieving £1500, a single strand of amber beads £900 and a half hoop ring set with diamonds £550. There were some excellent pictures entered and a gouache by Andrew Ellis (1971 - ) making £2000 whilst an oil on board of Dordreath by W A Gibson making £600. Amongst the collectables, oriental items generated interest from the Far East with a cloisonné planter realising £1700 and a pair of 18th/19th century hexagonal jardinieres making £1200.

At the January auction of Antiques and Collectables, another good seasonal entry of 600 lots went under the hammer with excellent entries of quality jewellery, silver and furniture on offer. A white metal ring set with a sapphire achieved £1100 whilst a sapphire and diamond brooch made £600. Other items selling to advantage included a Meissen style figure group that sold for £650, a Caucasian runner £550 and a carved teak figure of a peacock £600.

With three sales being staged each month, the Mendip Auction Rooms are gaining in popularity with buyers and sellers and those looking for sound valuation advice can have confidence in the team of valuers and consultants who undertake valuations for a range of purposes. On viewing and sale days, the Lookout Café is open between 10am and 3pm and serves excellent coffees, light lunches and refreshments.