On Saturday 5 July, Sworders was delighted to support St Mary’s Church, Matching, by hosting a special Valuation Day in aid of their much-needed restoration appeal. Set in the heart of the Essex countryside, the event welcomed a steady stream of visitors, each bringing with them an eclectic mix of heirlooms, antiques, and curiosities. Valuations were offered at £10 for up to five items, with all proceeds donated directly to the church’s restoration fund.
16 July 2025
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Sworders’ team of specialists thoroughly enjoyed meeting members of the local community and sharing insights into some truly fascinating pieces.
Luke Macdonald, Director and Head of Estates, encountered several remarkable finds - among them, a boxed set of first edition Harry Potter books, potentially worth £3,000–5,000 at auction, a fine 19th-century French ormolu urn valued at £500–700, and even a US Airforce evacuation sleeping bag, estimated at £50–80. A reminder that value often lies as much in the unexpected as in the rare.
A 19th-century French ormolu urn valued at £500–700
Valeria Di Cola, Head of Jewellery, was particularly intrigued by a striking Edwardian diamond and emerald devant de corsage brooch - a grand jewel passed down through generations and presented in a Cartier box. Although unmarked on the day, the brooch certainly merits further research and could shine in a future Fine Jewellery auction.
Meanwhile, Alex Froggatt, Sworders’ Glass Specialist, highlighted a charming set of Beatrice Hindley cold-painted flower models - delicate creations by the artist famed for her work on Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House. Unbeknownst to their owner, the trio of miniatures carries an estimated value of £500–600.
Beyond the valuations, the day proved a wonderful opportunity to engage with the community, hear the stories behind treasured possessions, and most importantly, contribute to a cause close to many hearts. Any items consigned for sale on the day will be sold in support of St Mary’s Church Restoration Appeal, with a donation from the proceeds going directly to the fund.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended and supported the event - Sworders looks forward to welcoming both familiar faces and fascinating finds again soon.
If you would like to make a personal contribution, donations can be made via the link below. Every gift helps preserve this cherished community landmark.
For any enquiries, please contact matchingchurchrestoration@gmail.com
On Saturday 5 July, Sworders was delighted to support St Mary’s Church, Matching, by hosting a special Valuation Day in aid of their much-needed restoration appeal. Set in the heart of the Essex countryside, the event welcomed a steady stream of visitors, each bringing with them an eclectic mix of heirlooms, antiques, and curiosities. Valuations were offered at £10 for up to five items, with all proceeds donated directly to the church’s restoration fund.
16 July 2025
At a recent Stansted Valuation Day, we had the privilege of consigning a remarkable collection of four beautifully handcrafted quilts by Maureen Baker (British Contemporary School). They will be offered in our 22 July Homes & Interiors Auction, with all proceeds generously donated to Alzheimer’s Research UK.
15 July 2025
Few figures in the art and antiques world have shaped taste and defied convention quite like Ken Bolan. From the glamour of continental showrooms to the quiet beauty of rewilded West Country landscapes, Ken’s journey has been one of bold vision and creative instinct. This landmark sale, to be held on Wednesday 24 September, opens a window into that world – a personal collection amassed over five decades, filled with sculpture, furniture, and design with soul and story.
7 July 2025