Sheppard’s cornering expat Asian market

Sales of oriental and Chinese items have given the firm a firm following, says Des O’Sullivan.

A 14th century carved polychrome Madonna and Child, a portrait of Joseph II, Emperor of Austria as a young man and a Qing period gilt bronze urn with raised dragon decoration, are among the more unusual items on offer at three days of sales at Sheppard’s in Durrow, Co Laois, next Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

The Madonna is estimated at €6,000-9,000; the portrait, from the workshop of Marin van Meytens (1695-177), and the urn are both estimated at €20,000-30,000.

More than any other Irish auction house Sheppard’s has developed a strong Asian following. Last Sunday a delegation of 40 Irish-based Chinese nationals, comprised of embassy officials, academics, business people and collectors, travelled to view the sale in advance.

General viewing gets underway in Durrow today.

Around 600 lots will be offered on Tuesday and Wednesday and over 300 lots of Asian art and fine wines will be sold on Thursday.