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
Sworders' Paint, Print, Sculpt sale on July 15 featured a remarkable selection of artist-signed prints from the now-discontinued Kent Visual Arts Loan Scheme, raising over £40,000 for Kent County Council - with standout results for Edward Bawden, Julian Trevelyan, and Monica Poole.
17 July 2025
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