12 amazing interiors pieces to buy at auction in April
Auction houses are a goldmine for finding unique and rare furniture and decorative pieces, and April is the perfect time to dive into the excitement, as it is when many auction houses hold interiors sales. Once considered accessible only to dealers and collectors, auction house sales have become an essential resource for interior designers in search of artworks, furniture, rugs, ceramics and much more. As auction houses increasingly transition to digital platforms, shopping in this way has never been more convenient.
Embarking on your initial auction experience may seem daunting, but fear not! Here are four tips to guide you through.
Auction houses typically apply additional charges on top of your bid, known as the buyer's premium. Be sure to familiarise yourself with these extra expenses, which can vary from one auction house to the next, to avoid any surprises.
Looking solely on photos of a piece on the website might not give you the full picture. Speaking with an auction specialist allows you to gain deeper insights and access additional images and condition reports, helping you make a more informed decision.
In the days leading up to the auction, most auctions offer public viewings. This is your chance to inspect items of interest firsthand and ensure they are to your liking before you decide to bid.
Whether actively participating in bidding or assuming the role of an observer, attending the pre-auction viewings and the auction itself can be an enjoyable and enlightening experience. Take the opportunity to explore the items on display and immerse yourself in the excitement of the auction atmosphere!
1/12A pair of 1960s Spanish sunflower wall lights
Dreweatts, Berkshire, ‘Alchemy of Design: The Collection of Count Manfredi della Gherardesca’, 24 April
These exquisite wall lights come from the collection of the late Count Manfredi della Gherardesca, the celebrated Italian interior designer and art collector. With their gleaming silver and gilt sunflower decoration, they promise to infuse any room with warmth and character, making them the perfect statement piece for those who love a touch of whimsy in their schemes.
Estimate: £400 - £600
2/12A pair of Victorian bobbin chairs
Chiswick Auctions, London, ‘Interiors, Homes & Antiques: Part 1’, 26 March – 07 April
The trend for all things bobbin, be it furniture, picture frames or mirrors, shows no sign of fading away any time soon! These charming Victorian beech chairs exemplify this trend beautifully and are available at an irresistible price point.
Estimate: £100 - £200
3/12A 19th-century Samson Iznik-style pottery bottle
Sotheby’s, London, ‘Arts of the Islamic World & India’, 24 April
The biannual auctions of Islamic and Indian art at Sotheby's are a treasure trove for ceramics and it’s challenging to pick a favourite amongst the offerings. One standout is this Iznik-style bottle crafted by Edmé Samson (1810-91),t he well-known French pottery producer. Adorned with intricate blue and green motifs of tulips and geometric patterns, this piece is nothing short of exceptional.
Estimate: £8,000 - £12,000
4/12A Chinoiserie decorated room screen
Dreweatts, Berkshire, ‘Interiors’, 10 April
This early 20th century folding room divider immediately commands attention for its elegant lacquer and gilt chinoiserie design. Offered as part of the 'Interiors' sale at Berkshire-based Dreweatts auction house, this scarlet room screen epitomises the allure of the 'unexpected red theory' trend.
Estimate: £600 - £800
5/12The Conran Shop green velvet sofa
Chiswick Auctions, London, ‘Interiors, Homes & Antiques: Part 1’, 26 March – 07 April
This smart four-seater sofa upholstered in brilliant green velvet is a timeless design that exudes sophistication. Similar pieces purchased new from the iconic Conran Shop often command prices exceeding £4,000, making this an exceptional find for those seeking both style and value.
Estimate: £500 - £700
Richard_Valencia_Photography6/12Seven late 18th-century Italian wall brackets
Woolley & Wallis, Wiltshire, ‘Parker & Morris: The Art of Decorating’, 17 April
These seven giltwood wall brackets are the perfect blend of function and style. With their ornate carvings of scrolls and laurels, they're not just practical for displaying objects – they're decorative pieces in their own right. Part of a collection formed by interior designers Derek Parker and Peter Morris, these 18th-century wall brackets offer a charming way to elevate any wall space. Whether showcasing prized possessions or simply adding a touch of grandeur to a room, these brackets are sure to make everything placed on them feel extra special.
Estimate: £300 - £500
7/12A cream, red and blue carpet designed by Hugh Henry for David Mlinaric
Dreweatts, Berkshire, ‘The Collection of Serena, Countess of Snowdon’, 9 April
With the power to dramatically transform a living space, this rug features a striking abstract design by Hugh Henry. Part of the collection of Serena, Countess of Snowdon, this rug is truly a showstopper.
Estimate: £1,200 - £1,800
8/12Flower vase by Gerard De Witt (1884-1976) for Fulham Pottery
Lyon & Turnbull, Edinburgh, ‘Design Since 1860’, 17 & 18 April
In recent years, Fulham Pottery has experienced a renaissance, captivating interior designers and collectors alike. The contemporary flair of this elegant vase makes it a standout addition to any interior space, whether displayed as a standalone statement piece or adorned with your favourite blooms.
Estimate: £300 - £500
9/12Brass lamp, circa 1900
Lyon & Turnbull, Edinburgh, ‘Design Since 1860’, 17 & 18 April
Another gem from the Lyon& Turnbull ‘Design since 1860’ auction. This table lamp incorporates an elegant brass base with a timeless pleated silk shade.
Estimate: £1,000 - £1,500
10/12Chiswick Auctions, London, ‘Design & Modern Contemporary’, 9 April
Renowned for their whimsical designs and artistic flair, Fornasetti plates transcend their functional purpose to become works of art. Whether displayed on walls, shelves, or as part of a table setting, they infuse spaces with personality.
Estimate: £200 - £400
11/12A 19-century Samarkand suzani
Christie’s, London, ‘Art of the Islamic & Indian Worlds Including Rugs and Carpets’, 25 April
Christie’s Art of the Islamic & Indian Worlds Including Rugs and Carpets has some of the most wonderful textiles to choose from. One stand-out piece is this remarkable 19th-century suzani from Uzbekistan. Bursting with bold colours and intricate patterns, this Suzani is a visual delight showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of its origins. A versatile piece that would make for a striking wall hanging.
Estimate: £7,000 - £9,000
12/12An early 20th-century painted writing desk
Bonham, London, ‘Home & Interiors’, 05 April – 16 April
Featuring charming Cupids, floral motifs, and ribbon-tied trophies, this Edwardian Sheraton revival satinwood and polychrome decorated bonheur du jour reflects the enduring popularity of painted wooden furniture in today's interior design trends. This is a timeless piece that exudes a romantic charm.
Estimate: £600 - £800
