At Lay's Auctioneers our Cornish Art & Fine Art sales have become Cornwall's premier destination for discerning private art collectors and connoisseurs of creativity. Specialists since 1978, we are proud to present regular specialist sales brimming with quintessential artworks and important works new to the market, transcending borders and captivating the senses. Our curated sales are a showcase of both esteemed local artists and renowned international luminaries, including Alfred Munnings, Charles Simpson, Dod Procter, Frank Bramley, Dame Laura Knight, Harold Harvey, Harold Knight, Henry Scott Tuke, Lamorna Birch, Stanhope Forbes, Sir Terry Frost, Thomas Cooper Gotch, Breon O'Casey and Walter Langley.
Our expert team, driven by a shared passion for the arts, ensures that every sale is a joy to behold, seamlessly merging the traditional with the modern. The vibrancy of our in-person auctions is interwoven with technology that allows us to advertise and broadcast to art enthusiasts worldwide. Furthermore our dedicated and experienced in-house packing department offer a seamless and secure service, posting works to winning bidders across the globe.
Over the years, our commitment to uniting art and the right buyers has yielded remarkable successes, with hammer-prices that rival the grandeur of London auction houses. We take pride in showcasing the talents of local artists, such as the resplendent 'Soldiers and Sailors' by the iconic Stanhope Forbes, which commanded an impressive £155,000, and Dame Laura Knight's captivating 'Study of Ella Naper,' fetching £105,000.
Our principle specialist art auction, occuring typically five times a year and hosted from our Penzance saleroom in Cornwall. A popular sale with art collectors, featuring the finest works by esteemed local and international artists.
*NEW* The Timed Art Sale is online-only, featuring an eclectic mix of art, perfect for the individuals looking to buy between our main art auction, adding a personal touch to their home or those beginning their journey as an art collector.
Discover our full calendar of future sales: Upcoming Auctions
Our auctions reach a global audience and we pride ourselves on uniting art lovers with exceptional works, wherever they are in the world. Here follow just a few of our most recent success stories.
With a wealth of expertise – particularly in Cornish Art, enhanced by our 45-year Penwithian foundations – our specialists draw upon exceptional historical knowledge and a keen awareness of the dynamic art market to offer comprehensive insights, precise valuations and an uplifting auction experience. We recognise and appreciate the intrinsic value and significance of artworks, ensuring our clients receive the utmost professional guidance. Whether you seek expertise in acquiring, valuing or selling art, our team is here to assist you with our keen understanding of the art world.
Auctioneer & Valuer
Historically, we have been entrusted with the extraordinary privilege of unveiling the treasures held within prestigious collections belonging to single owners. 'The John Grimble Collection' and the 'Sven & Julia Berlin Collection' being examples of these remarkable opportunities, which allow us to canonically celebrate the life and achievements of revered artists, evoking unparalleled excitement among collectors and enthusiasts alike.
If you would like to discuss selling such an art collection with us, please contact our head of sale, Caroline Lay: caroline@davidlay.co.uk
