Arts and antiques
Roseberys London presents the remarkable collection of George Farrow, comprising sought after pieces from China, the Middle East and Europe. This extensive single owner collection reflects the eclectic tastes of a passionate enthusiast of antiques and fine art. The collection is the subject of a major sale taking place at the auction house on Tuesday 4th June 2024.
Born of humble beginnings in Greenwich, Southeast London, George Farrow left school at the age of sixteen and began a career in the building industry, rising to become one of Britain’s largest private landlords. In the process, he amassed an eclectic private art collection.
The sale presents an opportunity for collectors to acquire pieces from a comprehensive and cohesive collection of art and antiques that have been carefully curated over many years. Comprised of 567 lots, the collection highlights include a rare Berlin Chinoiserie tapestry attributed to Charles Vigne from the second quarter of the 18th century with an estimate of £100,000-200,000 and an Italian specimen marble and micromosaic table, along with several ornate velvet panels spanning Safavid and Ottoman empires.
Historical
Anna Evans, Head of Sale at Roseberys London, commented: ‘Roseberys is thrilled to have the opportunity bring such an extraordinary single owner collection to the market. The collection is remarkable, not only in its scholarly and historical breadth, but also because of its quality and exceptional state of preservation. Given the the Chinese, Middle Eastern and European highlights included in the sale, we expect to attract interest from across Roseberys’ international client base’.
‘Art for some unknown reason even from the age of ten fascinated me beyond belief – the skills, the dedication and “labour” input that went into the creation of a masterpiece was to me a miracle’
George Farrow
- A Berlin Chinoiserie Tapestry (estimate £100,000-£200,000) – this rare and striking tapestry depicts The Emperor’s Banquet, showing the Chinese Emperor and other richly attired courtly figures around an elaborate dining table. It is attributed to the workshop of Jean II Barraband and Charles Vigne, after the design of a tapestry from the same series currently held in the MET collection.
A pair of Chinese fishbowls (estimate £30,000 – 50,000) – this remarkable example exemplifies the zenith of Chinese export porcelain production during the reign of Qianlong. Technically advanced, and wonderfully decorated, objects like these were in high demand in Europe in the 18th century.
- Two voided crimson velvet and silk catma panels (estimate £20,000-30,000) – these 17th century panels are woven with repeating floral roundels of tulips, pomegranates and saz leaves, with the sheen of the metal threads contrasting against the rich hue of the velvet to beautiful effect. The Farrow panels are a rare survival of court quality Ottoman velvets.
A full catalogue of the sale is available here.
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