Welcome once again to another instalment of 'Blog Post Monday'!
This week, I was so very fortunate to chat to another industry legend. A legend whom some of you will recognise from popular BBC antiques shows such as Bargain Hunt, Antiques Road Trip and Flog It!. He is also among the best-known faces of the UK regional auction scene and is managing director of 'Dreweatts'. Without further ado, please put your hands together for this week's special guest, the one, the only, Mr Jonathan Pratt, ladies and gentlemen!
So, as always, get that kettle on, settle into your favourite chair and let's find out what Jonathan had to say about the world of antiques...
Image: Jonathan Pratt - courtesy of www.dreweatts.com
Q. How did you get into the antiques trade?
Jonathan:
I recognised I had an interest in antiques in my early teens when the first series of Lovejoy started on the BBC in 1986. This spurred me on to study a diploma in Fine Art and Antiques in Southampton run by the ISVA (Later RICS), and I never looked back!
Image: Jonathan Pratt - courtesy of www.dreweatts.com
Q. What is your current speciality or interest?
Jonathan:
My primary interest is jewellery which dominated my career over the the last 20 years. I was fortunate to have an employer in the 90’s who suggested I study gemmology, so I did for two years and obtained my FGA - a great qualification for anyone looking to get in to the jewellery trade or auctions.
Image: Jonathan Pratt - courtesy of the BBC
Q. What has been your most memorable find?
Jonathan:
A Chinese bronze bell from the summer palace that sold for £440k (admittedly this was a bit of a sleeper!). I found a 19th century violin by Giuseppe Rocca in Jersey whilst working at Sothebys which sold in London for £140k. Personal best purchase, a ski poster I bought at auction in Ireland for £180 that I sold for £2100.
Image: Jonathan Pratt - courtesy of the BBC
Q. Has there been an item that you have regretted selling?
Jonathan:
My 1979 canary yellow Mini 1000 I had as a student which cost me £500.
Image: Jonathan Pratt - courtesy of Antiques Trade Gazette
Q. What trends do you foresee for the coming year?
Jonathan:
Further growth in the furniture market, particularly early walnut.
Improved prices in fine 18th and 19th century pictures.
More Americans buying?
Image: Jonathan Pratt - courtesy of Mixcloud
Q. Do you have any advice for someone just starting out in the trade?
Jonathan:
It depends on the role and career being sought, but take any role available, find the role you’re interested in and study. It takes patience as it’s a life of learning but it’s a wonderful business to be in.
Image: Charles Hanson & Jonathan Pratt - courtesy of the BBC
Well, that's it for this week folks. I hope you've enjoyed my little catch up with Jonathan, what a very interesting and knowledgable chap he is. A massive thank you from me for taking time out of your busy schedule to chat to me, I really do appreciate it. And, if auctions are your bag, then keep your eyes on the upcoming auctions happening at 'Dreweatts', they've got "Fine and Rare Wine and Spirits" on 29th April (2021)...!!
As always, let me know what you think in the comments section below, it's always lovely to hear from you. And, if you enjoy my posts, please show your support by subscribing to my Blog, which you can do here or via the 'Home' page.
Until, next week, stay safe, keep buying those antiques and keep spreading that Source Vintage love!
Cheerio!
Stephen
Owner Source Vintage
Shop from Source Vintage here