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Pre-Lot Text
A West Country Tradition: An Appreciation of Andrew and Vibeke Jenkins
Antiques have always been a passion for Andrew Jenkins and he recalls some of his earliest memories of forays with his mother and grandmother in antique shops at home in South Wales and on holidays in North Devon.
Andrew began business in 1963, just two years after graduating and following an apprenticeship in an antiques shop on the King's Road. He borrowed £1,500, £1100 of which purchased his premises in Bradford on Avon and the remaining £300 was divided between the acquisition of a second hand van and stock for the shop. Working with his wife Vibeke, they established a thriving business, joining BADA in 1971 and collaborating with three other local members to found the West of England Antiques Fair in the Assembly Rooms, Bath.
Avon Antiques continued to build its reputation for excellence and was invited to exhibit in London when the Grosvenor House Antiques Fair was re-established in 1983.
Andrew's philosophy incorporates an unswerving commitment to finding pieces of true quality with a focus on colour and design; his experienced eye has captivated an international following and Christie's are delighted to offer the remaining stock of Avon Antiques.
"It was the autumn of 1995 when my wife and I first rented a car and went hunting for Georgian furniture in the West Country. After a disappointing start in Bath, we discovered Avon Antiques in Bradford on Avon and it was immediately clear that we had stumbled upon something special. In each room the quality of the furniture in oak, mahogany and satinwood exceeded anything that we had seen previously in Canada or America. Our introduction to Andrew Jenkins, a gentleman of integrity with an eye for excellence, began our education in antique furniture which has remained a passion ever since.
Andrew and Vibeke have become our friends over the years and our trust in their advice has meant we have purchased many items sight unseen - Andrew's recommendation is held in the highest regard - we have never been disappointed!"
Stephen Grover and Mara Ludwig, Montreal, Canada.