Semley Auctioneers’ first outing of the year comprised a specialist sale of pictures, books and prints followed by the usual monthly sale of antique furniture and objects.

There was plenty of interest across the board, and honours went to this small maritime 30 by 32 cm oil by Abraham Storck (ca.1635-1708) (see photo, above) which exceeded expectations and was the subject of a battle between two telephone bidders. It was finally sold to a continental buyer at an inclusive £65,000.
A pair of small oils by John Collet (1725-1780) also did well at £3,300. Twentieth century art continues to be popular and in this category an atmospheric oil by Marcel Dyf (1899-1985) brought £6,200, a very small 16 by 21 cm oil by Donald McIntyre £3,200 and a watercolour sketch by William Russell Flint (1880-1969) £3,500.
Best of the furniture was a decorative Louis XVI-style kingwood parquetry commode which brought £3,400. In the general sale, which concluded the day, £9,500 was paid for a classic MG MGB, first registered in 1966 and with only one owner from new.

Entries are now being accepted for all the spring specialist sales and enquiries regarding consigning items for sale or for valuation should be directed to Simon Pearce at the Semley, Shaftesbury office (01747 855 122), Kath Barber, Wimborne (01202 842 900) or Rose Halton. South Kensington (0207 591 0159).