Antiques Roadshow expert’s stately home collection to be sold for thousands
A remarkable collection of family heirlooms, traced by the late Hugo David Montagu Morley-Fletcher, an expert from the Antiques Roadshow, is set to go under the hammer at an auction. The heirlooms hail from Yester House in East Lothian, the birthplace of Morley-Fletcher in 1940. The house, previously owned by the Hay family and later the Marquesses of Tweeddale, held these treasures for six centuries until the late 1960s.
Morley-Fletcher’s career in ceramics and antiques was heavily influenced by his connection to Yester House, and he painstakingly traced and repurchased the heirlooms and artworks, including Old Masters, ceramics, and family portraits. These treasures will now be auctioned off in March, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the house and the family that resided there.
The upcoming auction at Roseberys will feature a range of items, including Old Master paintings and ceramics from the collection. The portrait of John Hay, 8th Lord Hay of Yester, dating back to 1628 and attributed to Adam de Colone, is one of the highlights with an estimated price tag of £2,000-£3,000. Another notable piece is a Meissen porcelain lobed dessert-plate from 1735 featured in Morley-Fletcher’s book, Meissen Porcelain In Colour, expected to fetch between £1,500 and £2,000.
Hugo Morley-Fletcher’s passion for ceramics and artistry shone through his work at Christie’s, where he spent 40 years and rose to head the European ceramics department at the age of 29. His expertise was also evident during his tenure as an Antiques Roadshow expert for over two decades, showcasing his keen eye for art and decorative pieces.
The legacy of Hugo Morley-Fletcher is deeply ingrained in the collection that will be presented at the auction. Lara L’vov‑Basirov, the head of Old Master, British and European pictures at Roseberys, commended the collection as a reflection of Morley-Fletcher’s lifelong dedication to collecting and appreciating fine art.
An array of European porcelain manufacturers will be represented in the auction, allowing collectors a unique opportunity to own pieces selected by a true connoisseur. The collection not only showcases Morley-Fletcher’s exquisite taste but also his unwavering commitment to deepening his knowledge and appreciation for the arts.
In conclusion, the auction of Morley-Fletcher’s stately home collection promises to be a treasure trove for art enthusiasts and collectors alike. The pieces on offer not only tell the story of a distinguished family and their ancestral home but also pay homage to the remarkable career and passion of a true polymath in the world of ceramics and antiques.
Stay tuned for the auction at Roseberys in March to witness the culmination of six centuries of history and craftsmanship encapsulated in these exquisite heirlooms.