Irita Marriott

The finest mourning jewels pertain to historical events, royalty, and well-known personages. A good selection has come to market in recent weeks

While few will welcome the news that Bonhams – the last of the major auction houses to hold regular sales Japanese works of art in London – is moving its department to Paris (ATG No 2690), there will be opportunities for UK salerooms that continue to plough this selective but occasionally fruitful furrow.

A watercolour of a dandelion attributed to Beatrix Potter estimated at £200-300 ended up selling at a hammer price of £2600.

Manual relating to church charity schools is the latest example of its type to impress in a saleroom

Despite the catalogue note “would benefit from sympathetic restoration to exterior”, the overall appeal of a rare 19th century folk art dolls’ diorama of a kitchen was enough to take the hammer price to £7000.

What is the key combination for a successful valuation day? The right location, venue, welcoming atmosphere, format, frequency and recognisable hosts can all come into play, as the experts themselves tell ATG

A Polynesian ladle surfaced in a Derbyshire saleroom, selling for nearly five-times its £500-700 estimate.

A new auction house has been launched in Derbyshire by former dealer Irita Marriott.