By Madeleine Cater, Cataloguer at Fellows Auctioneers.

Based in Birmingham, we’re always on the lookout for objects specifically connected to the UK’s second city. The first Antiques, Silver & Collectables sale of 2021, taking place on the 25th January, is no exception. Here are a few of the upcoming Lots which link to our place in the West Midlands:

tea set
A modern silver tea service by Albert Edward Jones

Having a strong history of silversmiths in the city we often come across items of silver with the Birmingham Assay Office mark of an anchor, as well as maker’s marks for well-known Birmingham makers. The silversmith Albert Edward Jones (1878-1954) trained and worked in Birmingham, and was renowned for his pieces being inspired by the Arts and Crafts Movement of his time. Lot 129 is a modern silver tea service made in the workshop of Albert Edward Jones and is truly representative of this style of craftsmanship.

ruskin pottery
A Ruskin pottery sang-de-boeuf high fired miniature ginger jar and cover

Another style of craftsmanship flourishing in the West Midlands during the turn of the 20th century was ceramics. The studio of Ruskin Pottery was founded in Smethwick in 1898 and came to be one of the most eminent ceramic studios in the UK. Our upcoming sale has a few Ruskin pieces, most notably Lots 393 and 394 which are examples of the highly sought after Ruskin sang-de-beouf high fired glazes.

vincent clare
Vincent Clare (1855 - 1930), still life oil painting on canvas

Brothers Oliver and Vincent Clare, known for their detailed and naturalistic still life paintings of fruit and flowers, were also born in the West Midlands and often exhibited in Birmingham. Lots 705, 707, 708 and 709 are fine examples of their style. As much as the West Midlands is a site of artistic development, it is also a key location for industry. Lot 656 is testament to this as it contains an array of car memorabilia and accessories relating to many cars manufactured in the area, and notably at the Longbridge plant. Items include pieces by Austin, MG and Wolseley.

And for the football fans among you (or, more specifically, West Bromwich Albion fans!), Lot 371 is a limited edition sculpture of Tony ‘Bomber’ Brown, the former West Brom player who helped to bring much success to the club.