Apter-Fredericks sale at Christie’s
Rare and prestigious examples of English furniture from the 18th to 19th centuries will take place next month in Christie’s Apter-Fredericks: 75 Years of Important English Furniture sale.
The auction, which comprises 140 lots, encompasses English furniture and works of art from distinguished provenances such as Spencer House, Langley Park and Cliveden. Works include pieces by the foremost craftsmen and designers of the 18th and 19th centuries including Chippendale, Ince & Mayhew, Linnell, Gomm, Lock, Cobb, Bullock and Gillows, as well as a selection of Chinese works of art.
Internationally renowned for the superlative quality, condition and provenance of their pieces, furniture dealers and experts Apter-Fredericks remains an industry byword for the very finest furniture and works of art, a reputation which has been built by three generations of the family over the last 75 years.
Dealing from their prestigious showroom located on London’s Fulham Road, Apter-Fredericks have welcomed clients from all over the word who have valued their expertise, discretion and ability to seek out works of art to the highest calibre, not only for private collections but also for museums and institutions globally.
Harry and Guy Apter commented: “For 75 years Apter-Fredericks have enjoyed dealing in the finest furniture, welcoming clients, old and new, to our Chelsea showroom and placing wonderful pieces in their homes, as well as occasionally in museums. After 40 years in the business, a new world and a new way of working has developed and it has become clear to us both that we no longer want or need a showroom in central London to continue to thrive and do business successfully. We see a future where we hold less stock and are able to spend more time both in the pursuit of masterpieces and visiting our clients.”
The pair continued: “The furniture and various decorative objects included in this sale are a fair reflection of the breadth and quality of items we have had so much pleasure in handling over the years. Amongst them are the highly important, like the Leinster House cabinets, estimated at £40,000-60,000; to the highly functional, like the dining-tables for which we are so well known, including the Westport House table, estimated at £50,000-80,000.
Amelia Walker, Specialist Head of Private & Iconic Collections and Co-Head of Sale commented: “The name Apter-Fredericks has long been synonymous with impeccable quality, condition and distinguished provenance and the works of art offered here all fall under at least two or all three of these categories. Christie’s is honoured to be marking the end of an era – the closure of their eponymous Chelsea showroom – with this collection sale.”
Robert Copley, International Specialist Head of Furniture and Deputy Chairman, Christie’s UK commented: “The Apters have been a major force in the English furniture market for the entirety of my career at Christie’s, spanning the last four decades; they know their market, are extremely selective in their acquisitions and justifiably have a reputation which is second to none.”
The online sale will start on January 19.