Auctions

Examples of classical Greek sculpture carved from a piece of ivory are rare survivors. A small horse’s head, executed with a considerable degree of naturalism from this fragile organic material, proved highly sought-after when it came up for auction in Monaco.

The windswept shore of south-west Scotland is a long way from Pitcairn Island, but a cannon coming up for auction at a Dumfries saleroom links the far-flung locations and a famous mutiny.

An original typescript for Boris Pasternak’s most famous novel ‘Doctor Zhivago’ with handwritten corrections by the author has been consigned to Forum Auctions. It is estimated at £100,000-150,000 at the sale in London on May 31.

Latest saleroom moves, including appointments at Dix Noonan Webb and Clevedon Salerooms.

A bronze sculpture by Lynn Chadwick (1914-2003) was one of the top lots at a Gloucestershire auction earlier this week.

Football fans and royalists have a busy weekend ahead – Saturday, May 19, is when Prince Harry marries Meghan Markle at Windsor Castle and Chelsea take on Manchester United at Wembley in the FA Cup Final.

The largest painting by ever made by Amedeo Modigliani (1884-1920) became the fourth most expensive work of art ever sold at auction in New York last night, but it still sold below estimate.

Chatshow host Michael Parkinson had a glittering TV career. However, he was quick to acknowledge: “The only thing I’m ever remembered for is being attacked by that bloody bird.”

Savile Row tailor Huntsman & Sons and financier Pierre Lagrange are to hold an online auction at Sotheby’s later this month.

Prime minister, politician, army officer, war journalist and writer - Winston Churchill had many talents, but it was while painting that he truly relaxed.