"I’d be divorced before I bought my second Rothko"
Reflections, aspirations, and insights - we delve into the inner thoughts of Head of 20th Century Design John Black...
Reflections, aspirations, and insights - we delve into the inner thoughts of Head of 20th Century Design John Black...
John Black | Head of 20th Century Design
Your favourite object and why?
My iPhone – it keeps me up to date with emails it gets me to my appointments, takes better photos than any other camera. It’s dependable and I can turn it off when I want!
If money was no object what would you collect?
I’d be divorced before I bought my second Rothko.
What was your most surprising find of 2020?
Every week brings surprises, everyday new challenges – I’m surprised and absorbed by everything!
What are your go-to resources for research?
I can only thank many collections worldwide who have digitised theirs – the VAM in particular, helps me on many occasions finding a design or an object.
What's been 2020's strangest request?
Hannah, my wife, asking me to stop bringing things home that I had to buy from one of our auctions… strange isn’t it?
johnblack@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778
Recent News
John Emms (1843-1912)
Celebrated artist John Emms is best known for his masterful depictions of hounds and terriers. We are delighted to offer his painting 'Two greyhounds' in our 28 May Old Master, British & European Art auction.
8 May 2025
Silk, Satin & Social Symbolism
An architect of social imagination; Frederick Soulacroix (1858–1933) crafted images that reflected the aspirations and anxieties of a rapidly changing world, exploring cultural ideals and social class. A selection of these exquisite paintings will be offered in our 28 May Old Master, British & European Art auction.
6 May 2025
Sworders Supports the St Mary’s Church Matching Restoration Appeal
We are delighted to support the St Mary’s Church Restoration Appeal with a special valuation day on Saturday, 5 July 2025. Our team will be available to help you uncover the value of your items, all while raising vital funds for the church’s restoration efforts.
1 May 2025