The Largest Collection of Blue John Sold at Fellows Auctioneers

After busy viewing events in London, Derbyshire and Birmingham, Fellows Auctioneers held their much anticipated Blue John Sale earlier today in the Jewellery Quarter. Those attending the busy saleroom were not left disappointed, with lots reaching high hammer prices along with an exceptional over 95% sold rate.

 Everything from delicate small bowls and goblets, to urns and large ornate items made up this collection of over 250 pieces, which is thought to be the largest ever sold at auction. There were also successful buyers bidding on raw Blue John material, such as Lot 161, a Blue John boulder which sold for 10 times its conservative estimate (£50-80) with a hammer price of £560. As well as beautifully crafted bowls and goblets that fetched from as little as £500 to well over £1,000. 

Mark Huddleston, Antique & Fine Art Specialist at Fellows who led the sale, commented that “Blue John is big news at the moment following the discovery of a major new seam at Treak Cliff in Derbyshire” its popularity was evident in today’s auction.  

With private and trade buyers filling the seats, along with international customers on the telephones and online, hammer highlights were easy to come by. Lot 1, a fine Blue John pedestal dish or tazza, sold with a hammer price of £4,400, double the £1,500-£2,000 estimate. Ending the sale with the star piece attributed to Matthew Boulton selling for £21,000. 

Free valuations take place every Wednesday 10am - 4pm at Fellow’s Saleroom, where you can bring along your unwanted antiques, jewellery and watches for estimates and advice regarding entering your items for auction.