We are once again privileged to have been entrusted to disperse hundreds of lots that have been treasured by custodians for generations, including items from the collection of the Cheshire-based dealer, the late Malcolm Frazer. Below, his wife and family detail his inspiring life of passionate and expert collectorship.
21 August 2023
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In April of this year, we mourned the passing of our husband and father, Malcolm Frazer, formerly the proprietor of Malcolm Frazer Antiques, who dedicated a lifetime to the world of antiques and interiors.
Attributed to William Henry Davis (1783-1865) A prize cow in a wooded landscape oil on canvas 51 x 66cm (£1,500-2,500)
For over fifty years, Malcolm held a prominent position as one of the foremost dealers in the north of England, but his journey began with an apprenticeship at Heaton Tabb and Company Ltd. in Liverpool during the 1950s and early 1960s. Later, he ventured to Manchester, where he collaborated closely with Terence Conran in the establishment and management of the first Habitat store outside of London, situated on John Dalton Street, Manchester.
A collection of blue and white glazed pottery and porcelain (£400-600)
In the early 1970s, Malcolm opened his first antiques shop in the town of Stockport, specialising in marine and scientific antiques while also dealing in fine and decorative furniture and artwork. He embodied the true essence of a dealer, traversing the length and breadth of the country in an unending quest for the next great find. For over two decades, Malcolm exhibited at the distinguished Olympia Fine Arts and Antiques Fair, as well as the esteemed Chelsea Decorative Fair.
English Naive School, early 19th century Portrait of three sisters, standing full-length, each in a white dress with pink ribbons and red shoes, one stroking a pet dog and holding a rose, the youngest holding cherries, and the other holding a basket of flowers in an ornamental garden oil on canvas 100 x 124cm (£10,000-15,000)
Throughout his long tenure in the trade, Malcolm formed numerous friendships, not only with fellow professionals but also with private clients. This was in no doubt a result of his eagerness to always share his vast knowledge and expertise with those around him, endearing himself to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A pair of terrestrial and celestial library globes by J & W Cary (£5,000-7,000)
Upon deciding to retire, though one never truly retires from the trade, Malcolm focused on another lifelong passion - music. As a devoted jazz enthusiast, he indulged himself by becoming something of an impresario during the last twenty years of his life. At his home in Cheadle, Cheshire, he hosted concerts and invited musicians from around the world to perform, delighting those jazz aficionados who attended these memorable events.
Circle of Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723) 'Portrait Mary Compton Countess of Dorset, daughter of James, Earl of Northampton', seated three-quarter-length, in a gold dress and an ermine-trimmed cloak inscribed l.l., oil on canvas 124 x 100cm
Malcolm leaves behind a legacy of excellence in the world of antiques, interiors, and jazz and we will cherish and remember his impact on the community, as well as his dedication to his passions, for years to come.
~ Iris, Michele, Richard, and Andrew Frazer
A large delft tobacco jar (£400-600)
Tuesday 5 & Wednesday 6 September
fineinteriors@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778
Tuesday 26 September
pictures@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778
As you may be aware, Sworders’ London gallery at 15 Cecil Court was temporarily closed throughout much of June for refurbishment. We are delighted to say that we have now reopened for business, five days a week 11am-6pm and look forward to welcoming all our customers to a new-look space. Here Lizzie Lardner, head of Sworders London, talks about her plans for the gallery.
30 July 2025
A haunting carte-de-visite of David Livingstone’s coffin attended by Jacob Wainwright, captured in 1874, offers a remarkable glimpse into history. We are honoured to include this poignant photograph in our upcoming Out of the Ordinary sale, on Tuesday 19 August.
25 July 2025
Join us for a journey through time as we reminisce the Punk revolution and its lasting effects woven through every part of popular culture, film, art and fashion, ahead of our 19 August Out of the Ordinary auction, where Punk makes a bold feature.
25 July 2025