As we approach the end of another triumphant year in the face of adversity, we are exceptionally proud of our ever growing team, and are delighted to introduce the newest recruits to come on board in 2021.
27 December 2021
Emma Barnett
Cataloguer | Homes & Interiors
Emma graduated from the University of Warwick with a BA (Hons) History of Art degree. At university, she specialised in Renaissance art and medieval architecture, and spent a term studying abroad in Venice.
During her university studies, she completed an internship in the Jewellery Department at Christie’s. An interest in silver was established whilst working as a Junior Cataloguer in the Antiques, Silver & Collectables Department at Fellows Auctioneers in Birmingham where she gained valuable experience working in the field. However, her homeland of Essex beckoned, and she is now excited to progress her career in her new role at Sworders.
Let’s get to know her…
What attracted you to the world of Art & Antiques?
When I was 16, I spent my summer doing work experience at Reeman Dansie Auctioneers and knew that it was the career for me. I fell in love with the fast-paced environments of auction houses and the opportunity to see beautiful objects every day. I went on to study History of Art at university; however, I have already expanded my artistic knowledge in my first few weeks at Sworders. Alex has been a fantastic teacher; I hope to follow in his footsteps to become a Specialist and walking encyclopaedia of antiques and silver!
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself
I have made a bucket list of things I want to do before I’m 30. Some of them are quite tricky - my plan to be fluent in another language isn’t going so well, as DuoLingo loves to remind me. My dream to visit every capital city in Europe has also been put on hold due to the travel restrictions. However, I have started piano lessons, with the hope of getting to Grade 8 in the next seven years. I’m going to take my Grade 3 exam in January, so watch this space!
What shop can you not pass without going in?
Like many others, I have become more of an online shopper during the pandemic and a bit of an ASOS addict. However, I have recently realised that I am rapidly running out of wardrobe space, so I have decided to spend less on clothes and save up for a house of my own – preferably one with a walk-in wardrobe!
What do you do in your spare time?
I enjoy keeping active, so my happy place is probably the gym. I also spend a lot of my spare time with my friends – you can usually find us somewhere at the weekend with a cocktail in hand.
Hannah Began
Accounts Assistant
Hannah has always enjoyed art, from admiring old oil paintings in museums, to watching videos of modern contemporary artists online and even dabbling in a spot of photography herself.
Throughout her school studies and at-home amateur projects, art gave her an appreciation for the odd and whimsical things we humans find beauty in.
With previous experience in customer services, Hannah’s skills place her in excellent stead to help clients navigate the world of online auctions. Being able to carry out her day to day tasks whilst surrounded by beautiful artworks is naturally a pleasant bonus.
Let’s get to know her…
Outside of work, do you have any hobbies?
It might be easier to ask what hobbies I don’t have! I’ve always been an avid reader, and if there’s a craft based hobby out there, I’ve probably tried it at least once. Recently, though, I’ve been getting into knitting. I find it very relaxing and I’m also terrible at buying presents, so it makes for an easy gifting solution.
What was the last book you read?
I’m currently halfway through a history book called ‘Silk Roads’ which was suggested by my grandfather. It’s a fascinating read on trade routes in the ancient world, but it is unfortunately very slow going.
Which museum/gallery, anywhere in the world, would you recommend visiting?
Oh, it would have to be Kew Gardens. In the summer obviously, but I went there once with my art class, and it was simply gorgeous. There was an amazing variety of flowers, although I’m sure it must take hours to care for them all.
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself
I can play the piano, and actually reached grade four before I finished school, but I am hilariously bad at sight reading. I mainly rely on memorisation for playing old pieces, and for new ones I have to break out a pencil.
Rachael Howard
Administrator | Hertford Office
Rachael’s passion for objects began at the age of 17 whilst taking classical studies at A-Level. She went on to study History of Art & Film at Middlesex University, graduating with a BA (Hons). Prior to completing her Masters, Rachael gained valuable work experience at the then known Ruskin Gallery in Sheffield.
Securing further positions with the rebranded Sheffield Galleries, she worked on several short-term projects across the board from the documentation of Sheffield’s metalwork collection to the installation and project management of new galleries. A particular love of the decorative arts finally led her to her role as a project assistant position at The Wallace Collection, London.
She now joins us in our busy Hertford valuations office where she looks forward to learning all about the workings of an auction house whilst absorbing the knowledge and expertise of her team in a new client focussed challenge.
Let’s get to know her…
What part of the new role are you most excited about?
Whilst I have acquired a lot of experience working in museums and galleries, I have never worked in an auction house before. I’m looking forward to the new challenge and working in a role that is very client focused. Hopefully gaining more insight into the art market and maybe having the opportunity to handle some wonderful objects too!
Which museum/gallery, anywhere in the world, would you recommend visiting?
Definitely The Wallace Collection, London. It really does have it all! I particularly like that generations of the Hertford family amassed a collection through a simple love of objects and artwork, rather than a particular collecting policy. The house holds everything from old master paintings, a world class armoury, Sévres porcelain, and a stunning collection of gold boxes - my particular favourite!
How do you like to relax?
I’m a keen home cook, which runs in my family. Being in the kitchen means I can get a little bit creative and feel a huge sense of accomplishment when I try a new dish that really works. My weekends are often spent with my son at various race tracks around the country. Although, I still have a lot to learn as an apprentice mechanic!
Sworders' staff are the core strength of our business. As we expand we are always looking for the best talent to strengthen our momentum.
Keep tabs on the latest vacancies here -
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