A New Age for Oak?

On Wednesday 14 January, we held our The Age of Oak: The Collection of Michael Eaton at Humphreston Hall auction. This remarkable auction charted a personal voyage that had been shaped over more than thirty years. The collection had been built through the shared enthusiasm of a father and son who collected with intuition, respect and a deep appreciation for traditional craftsmanship. Rather than following fashions, they chose pieces that spoke to them, objects with integrity, presence and stories etched into their surfaces. Together, the collection formed a living tapestry of time, revealing a family’s enduring affection for history, heritage and the quiet beauty found in well-loved oak. The sale commanded strong international interest which resulted in a 97% sell-through rate, achieving 175% of the presale estimate.⁠

Commenting on the results, Head of the House Sales and Private Collections Department Joe Robinson said “This deeply personal collection was a map traced in oak, brass, and pigment, where every piece revealed the skill of its maker and the patina of time. It offered collectors an opportunity to acquire furniture and works of art with exceptional provenance and a compelling personal narrative, reflecting the close relationship of a father and son, and their dedication to quality and craftsmanship.”