A fascinating piece of Fife’s royal history is making its way to Perth for a highly anticipated auction. Three unique signed portraits of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, are set to be sold at Lindsay Burns auction house on Tuesday, April 29th. These aren’t just any royal photographs; they hold a special connection to the East Neuk of Fife.
The portraits were originally gifted by the Queen and the Duke to the Craw’s Nest Hotel in Anstruther back in 1982. The royal couple had dined at the hotel during a visit to the region, which included engagements in St Andrews, Anstruther, Methil, and Glenrothes. The photographs have remained within the same family who owned the hotel ever since, making this a truly remarkable opportunity for collectors and royal enthusiasts. A Royal Thank You Turned Auction Highlight
Taken by renowned photographer Peter Grujeon, the portraits capture individual images of the Queen and the Duke, as well as a picture of them together. Each photograph bears the signatures of the royal couple, adding to their historical value. Auctioneer Nick Burns of Lindsay Burns auction house anticipates that these extraordinary items will garner considerable attention, suggesting an estimated value between £100 and £200 each. However, given the rarity and provenance of the portraits, there’s a strong possibility they could exceed this valuation.
The Craw’s Nest Hotel, a landmark establishment on the Fife coast, held a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Its connection to this piece of royal history further elevates its significance in the region’s heritage. The auction of these portraits provides a unique glimpse into a moment in time, when royalty graced the Fife coastline and left a lasting impression. A Treasure Trove of Antiques and Art
Beyond the royal portraits, the Lindsay Burns auction is brimming with an impressive array of over 860 lots, encompassing antiques, art, and interior design pieces. Collectors and bargain hunters are encouraged to explore the diverse offerings, which promise something for every taste and budget. Among the many intriguing items is a 19th-century Maori fighting staff, known as a Taiaha. This intricately carved weapon, traditionally used in warfare and revered as a sacred treasure in Maori culture, is expected to command a price of at least £1,500.
Adding a local touch to the auction is a bronze model of a Modena pigeon by Perthshire sculptor William Hepworth. Hepworth, known for his wildlife-inspired bronze works, is a significant figure in Perth’s art scene. His creations can be found across the region, including the Torso de Femme sculpture near the Fergusson Gallery in Perth and the Queen Mother Memorial Gates at Balhousie Castle. The pigeon sculpture is estimated to be worth £150 to £300. Gold Rush at the Auction House
Reflecting current market trends, the auction also features a substantial collection of gold jewellery and other precious metal items. With gold prices reaching record highs, many sellers are capitalizing on the opportunity to achieve impressive returns on their investments. One standout piece in this category is a nine-carat gold cigarette case from Asprey of Bond Street, London, anticipated to fetch approximately £3,500. The two-day sale, scheduled for April 29th and 30th, offers ample opportunities to explore and bid on a wide selection of items, from historical artefacts to contemporary art and everything in between.
The auction house on King Street in Perth is open for public viewing on the weekend leading up to the auction. Potential bidders can examine the lots in person on Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm, Sunday from 1 pm to 3 pm, and Monday from 9 am to 5 pm. Bids can be placed either online or in person during the auction itself. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique piece to add to your home, this auction promises a rich tapestry of treasures waiting to be discovered.
The portraits were originally gifted by the Queen and the Duke to the Craw’s Nest Hotel in Anstruther back in 1982. The royal couple had dined at the hotel during a visit to the region, which included engagements in St Andrews, Anstruther, Methil, and Glenrothes. The photographs have remained within the same family who owned the hotel ever since, making this a truly remarkable opportunity for collectors and royal enthusiasts. A Royal Thank You Turned Auction Highlight
Taken by renowned photographer Peter Grujeon, the portraits capture individual images of the Queen and the Duke, as well as a picture of them together. Each photograph bears the signatures of the royal couple, adding to their historical value. Auctioneer Nick Burns of Lindsay Burns auction house anticipates that these extraordinary items will garner considerable attention, suggesting an estimated value between £100 and £200 each. However, given the rarity and provenance of the portraits, there’s a strong possibility they could exceed this valuation.
The Craw’s Nest Hotel, a landmark establishment on the Fife coast, held a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Its connection to this piece of royal history further elevates its significance in the region’s heritage. The auction of these portraits provides a unique glimpse into a moment in time, when royalty graced the Fife coastline and left a lasting impression. A Treasure Trove of Antiques and Art
Beyond the royal portraits, the Lindsay Burns auction is brimming with an impressive array of over 860 lots, encompassing antiques, art, and interior design pieces. Collectors and bargain hunters are encouraged to explore the diverse offerings, which promise something for every taste and budget. Among the many intriguing items is a 19th-century Maori fighting staff, known as a Taiaha. This intricately carved weapon, traditionally used in warfare and revered as a sacred treasure in Maori culture, is expected to command a price of at least £1,500.
Adding a local touch to the auction is a bronze model of a Modena pigeon by Perthshire sculptor William Hepworth. Hepworth, known for his wildlife-inspired bronze works, is a significant figure in Perth’s art scene. His creations can be found across the region, including the Torso de Femme sculpture near the Fergusson Gallery in Perth and the Queen Mother Memorial Gates at Balhousie Castle. The pigeon sculpture is estimated to be worth £150 to £300. Gold Rush at the Auction House
Reflecting current market trends, the auction also features a substantial collection of gold jewellery and other precious metal items. With gold prices reaching record highs, many sellers are capitalizing on the opportunity to achieve impressive returns on their investments. One standout piece in this category is a nine-carat gold cigarette case from Asprey of Bond Street, London, anticipated to fetch approximately £3,500. The two-day sale, scheduled for April 29th and 30th, offers ample opportunities to explore and bid on a wide selection of items, from historical artefacts to contemporary art and everything in between.
The auction house on King Street in Perth is open for public viewing on the weekend leading up to the auction. Potential bidders can examine the lots in person on Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm, Sunday from 1 pm to 3 pm, and Monday from 9 am to 5 pm. Bids can be placed either online or in person during the auction itself. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique piece to add to your home, this auction promises a rich tapestry of treasures waiting to be discovered.