Ewbank’s Auctions Continue But Online Only

Published on: 3 Apr, 2020
Updated on: 2 Apr, 2020

Ewbank’s fine art auctioneers and valuers has devised a series of solutions that allow sales and valuations to continue online while its premises are closed to the public.

The oil painting, The Holy Family with the infant St. John, from the studio of Jan Brueghel the Younger, sold for £22,000 in Ewbank’s 30th anniversary sale in March.

But Ewbank’s, who appeared on the BBC Antiques Roadshow last September, was clear that continuing with online valuations and live online sales behind closed doors would depend on government guidance.

Chris Ewbank said: “If the pandemic had happened even five years ago we would probably not have been able to set up the facilities for continuing.

“Fortunately, online bidding and valuation technology is pretty advanced these days, and with a safe and secure means of delivering, we have a viable means of continuing to service our customers.”

The auction house is also offering to store items for free until buyers are allowed to claim them in person from its auction rooms at Burnt Common, off the A3, near Send.

“People have started to go through what they have stored in their attics,” said Chris Ewbank. “Some of it they want to donate to charity, but if they think they may have something of more value, they have been sending us images to see if we can help.”

Ewbank’s, whose next auction will be on April 9, said it will continue to monitor developments closely with the health and safety of the staff and the public as paramount.

Chris Ewbank added: “Whilst we may be forced to apply for aspects of the Government’s support package, we are keen to keep offering a viable service where we can in order not to be a burden on the public purse.”

This article is based on a press release by Ewbank’s.