On the 27^th of February Christie’s London will auction a collection of decorative and fine arts from the celebrated Pimlico Road shop of the late Australian-born, English-based antique dealer Ross Hamilton (1942-1992). Now closed after 40 years of trading, Ross Hamilton Ltd. was one of the first antique stores to be opened on the Pimlico Road.

“The Ross Hamilton Collection: Journeys to Pimlico Road” features more than 375 lots including Indian, Chinese, English, and European Furniture; Chinese, Japanese, and European ceramics; and works of art from Old Masters to 19^th and 20^th century paintings with estimates for individual lots ranging from £400 up to £40,000. The collection as a whole is expected to realise in excess of £750,000.

Highlights of the sale include a 19^th century Australian parcel-gilt mahogany and satinwood metamorphic glove secretaire, estimated to fetch £25,000 - £40,000; a pair of 18^th century Chinese Imari baluster jars and covers, valued at £20,000 - £40,000; and a spectacular English cut-glass twelve-light chandelier being sold with an estimate of £20,000 - £30,000.

Hamilton’s natural instinct for seeking pictures, furniture and objects of the highest quality meant his shop was a success from its foundation, and the gallery spent years welcoming numerous high profile clients including Rudolf Nureyev, Bill Blass, Richard Gere, Elton John, and Princess Lee Radziwell, as well as many internationally respected decorators such as David Mlinaric, Jed Johnson, Mark Hampton, and Chester Jones.

Described in his obituary as “a fiercely proud Australian who, as an emigre, needed the nurture of Europe while constantly impatient with English reserve,” Hamilton is remembered as a talented antique dealer whose style helped transform the Pimlico Road into an internationally famous centre of the London antique trade.