Barry Lock (1934 – 2021) was a prolific collector, and during his long life working as a solicitor in London, he put together collections principally focusing on silver, portrait miniatures, enamel boxes and paintings. He was particularly drawn to silver with interesting crests, armorials and associations.
Lot 515, a large and important George III silver gilt two handled presentation cup and cover, estimate £4,000 - £6,000
From his apartment in Westminster comes a large selection of fine silver and objets, with the most noteworthy lot being a George III large silver gilt cup and cover by William Burwash, dated 1818, presented to William Scholes Withington by the civic authorities in Manchester for fulfilling his civic duties during what is now known as the infamous ‘Peterloo Massacre’ in 1819. The cup has an estimate of £4,000 - £6,000. There is also a pair of Victorian silver domed vegetable dish covers with the arms of Frederick William, Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz and the Cypher of HRH Princess Augusta of Cambridge, Duchess of Cambridge and a water jug and bowl which were previously owned by Harriet Mellon (1777 – 1837) Duchess of St Albans, with later the monogram for the philanthropist Angela Burdett-Coutts, 1st Baroness Burdett- Coutts (1814 – 1906). These pieces, fine quality, fine condition and with interesting history, are typical of the items from his collection.
Lot 533 - A William IV silver ewer and basin, mark of William Bateman II, estimate £1,500 - £2,500
Over the 88 pieces in the collection, Barry Lock managed to seek out some of the most sought after and unusual works in silver. He fully typified an old school collector, buying the best in class of pieces from auction houses and dealers up and down the country. He had a fabulous eye, and his exceptional sense for quality ensured that only the best pieces entered his collection. And whilst the pieces are wide ranging, Barry hit on a real trend here which we are seeing a growth of at auction. People are buying less quantity, but better quality. Quality really is the watchword in today’s market. When it comes to silver, it’s got to be the best condition from the most famous makers to generate the most money. With jewellery too, quality and condition is critical. This has been a trend which has been growing over some years, as society rejects the throwaway culture of the past few decades and auction or antique buys are becoming increasingly popular.
Lot 573, A pair of Victorian silver domed vegetable dish covers, estimate £1,500 - £2,500
Barry Lock knew about quality, and we are delighted to have been instructed to sell this important collection on behalf of his estate. We are sure that it will generate considerable interest among both trade buyers and private collectors.
To view the catalogue for the Jewellery, Silver & Watches Sale, please click here