RISING STARS

Innovation, drive and passion for their chosen paths are key characteristics of our leading young auctioneers, fair organisers and dealers – we meet eight of the freshest faces on the antiques scene, all aged 35 and under

- CAROLINE WHEATER

The antiques and auction world has always attracted a certain type. These people love their subject, are possibly a little unconventional, and are on a lifetime’s quest to learn about new things and to share that knowledge. What’s exciting is how the new generation are bringing their own approach to the field – fuelling new collecting areas, using social media to reach a wider audience, and caring about their impact on the environment. In tandem, a new, younger audience of buyers is discovering the fun of auctions and fairs for the first time, as well as the feel-good factor of supporting small businesses run by independent-minded people. ‘We have many dealers now in their 30s and 40s who joined us in recent years and who have firmly established their careers and reputations,’ says Jane Juran, organiser of The Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair at Battersea, one of London’s hottest shopping tickets. ‘It is a delight to see the latest generation grow in confidence, and as they are always learning from the older dealers around them, it helps them to raise the bar accordingly.’ In a similar vein, the veteran auctioneer Guy Schooling, chairman of Sworders in Essex, says: ‘Sworders is fortunate to have a team of young valuers and specialists who will ensure the firm remains in safe hands. They all possess a magical mixture of expertise, enthusiasm and enquiring minds.’

DORIAN CAFFOT DE FAWES

Age: 35 Position: Owner, Dorian Caffot de Fawes Antiques & Decorative Arts @doriancaffotdefawes