STAR SALES

Estimate £3,000–£5,000 Sold £!",#$$

Period sofas can be bought very a !ordably at auction, but this magni "cent 1830s example was a cut above, soaring to a much grander price.

The imposing piece was part of the contents of Hollycombe House in Hampshire, the family home of the late banker Tim Hoare and his wife Virginia. The 421-lot sale, held at Drewea#s, included many tempting objects the couple had collected over three decades, from Regency furniture to "ne paintings and antique lighting. The sofa’s frame is rosewood – now an endangered and protected species of tree – and measures over two metres wide and nearly a metre deep, with upholstery and cushions by the celebrated interior designer Robert Kime, who helped the Hoares furnish their house over the years. ‘ Its scale, colour and Robert Kime coverings drew bidders from America, Europe and the UK, creating competitive bidding that made its price rocket,’ says Drewea#s specialist Joe Robinson. ‘ The form is typical of the William IV period, with its scrolled arms, leaf- carved feet and brass castors, while its upholstery and accompanying cushions are emblematic of Robert’s work.’ dreweatts.com

A rare agateware teapot, a sparkly tiara and a folk-art marriage chest are among Caroline Wheater’s highlights from recent auctions