Mitchells’ Remarkable Antiques and Fine Art Auction
Recently, Mitchells hosted an exciting antiques and fine art auction, highlighting the enduring appeal of collectibles and artistry. One of the standout pieces was an oil on canvas by Hilda Fearon, a prominent artist from the St Ives School. This exquisite work, dated 1912, features a lovely scene of ladies enjoying tea alongside melon and flowers, ultimately selling for a remarkable £7,500.
Painting by Hilda Fearon depicting ladies having tea with melon and flowers (Image: Mitchells)
Upcoming Antiques and Fine Art Sale
As the excitement from the recent auction continues, Mitchells is now inviting entries for its next Antiques and Fine Art Sale, scheduled for June 10 to 12. Collectors and enthusiasts have until May 8 to submit their items for consideration. This is a golden opportunity for those looking to sell treasured antiques or unique artworks.
Celebrating Percy Kelly
The auction also showcased an impressive collection of works by renowned British artist Percy Kelly, known for his vibrant watercolors and striking representations of the British landscape. A family collection included a stunning ink and watercolour piece illustrating a country lane with a farmhouse and haystacks, which sold for £2,400. Another bid for a large 1975 watercolor of a Pembrokeshire coastal scene reached £2,300, while a watercolor titled “Christchurch Allonby” fetched £2,200.
Ink and watercolour scene of a country lane and farmhouse with haystacks (Image: Mitchells)
Auction Highlights
Mitchells holds a notable record for the highest sale of a Percy Kelly painting, previously achieving £7,200 for “Red Bridge Near Aspatria” in September 2025. This highlights the growing interest and investment in Kelly’s artwork, reaffirming his legacy in the modern art world.
Jewellery and Ceramics Bring Big Bids
Jewellery also sparked significant interest during the auction, with items like a 9ct gold charm bracelet weighing 111 grams selling for £3,600 and an 18ct gold foliate bracelet weighing 50 grams reaching £3,260. Such pieces not only possess intrinsic beauty but also serve as unique investment opportunities.
In the realm of ceramics and decorative items, a hand-painted Royal Worcester fruit study lidded vase, signed by J. Bowman, sold for an impressive £6,500. Furthermore, an 18th-century German silver gilt ecuelle with cover and stand fetched £2,700, showcasing the enduring allure of fine ceramics.
Unusual Lots
Some lots even ventured into the extraordinary. A Highland Light Infantry military Scottish dirk in a beautifully crafted mahogany and blue velvet-lined case attracted £2,800. This piece came with a poignant backstory, including a photograph of its original owner, Captain John MacDonald of the 5th Battalion, who lost his life at Gallipoli.
A large watercolour depicting a coastal scene in Pembrokeshire (Image: Mitchells)
Furniture Finds
The furniture segment of the auction had its highlight moments as well. A pair of elegantly crafted Victorian mahogany serving tables sold for £3,000, while an oak hall stand created by Robert Mouseman Thompson, showcasing his signature carved mouse motif, achieved a price of £2,100. These unique pieces not only enhance any collection but also tell stories of craftsmanship and heritage.
Opportunities for Collectors
Looking ahead, Mitchells encourages collectors and enthusiasts to think about their own cherished items for the upcoming sales. The next Antiques and Fine Art Sale will run from June 10 to 12, providing ample opportunity for sellers to pitch their items. Additionally, entries for the Vintage Toy & Model Sale are open until July 10, perfect for those with different collectibles.
Mitchells offers complimentary valuations by appointment at their Cockermouth saleroom, and even provides home visits in the South Lakes and Furness regions. For those unable to visit in person, valuation requests can be emailed along with photographs.
Kelly painting with ‘Red Bridge Near Aspatria (Image: Mitchells)
For expert guidance on the value of antiques, probate evaluations, or house clearances, potential sellers can contact Mitchells directly at 01900 827800 to schedule an appointment.