The Decorative Arts looks at the application of art and design across all mediums – ceramics, glass, metalware, textiles, jewellery, furniture, clocks, garden ornaments, and so on. The 20th century saw the birth of the most artistic and stylistic movements than any other period. It has resulted in a massive diversity in styles that fall under this bracket of collecting. This category showcases some of the great designer names and their creative output, such as William Morris, William Moorcroft, Clarice Cliff, and Rene Lalique. Given their diversity, the 20th century Decorative Art and Design auctions are some of the most keenly anticipated in the auction calendar.
Below are links to explore some of the most popular styles and movements a little further.
We host two specialist 20th Century Decorative Art and Design auctions a year in May and November. All auctions can be viewed at our saleroom in Leicestershire, with easy transport links via road and rail.
If buyers are unable to attend the auction, they can bid online, via the telephone, or leave an absentee bid.
If you would like to be kept informed of our 20th Century Decorative Art and Design department, sign-up to our dedicated newsletter. We’ll alert you to upcoming auctions, consignment closing dates, and other related news. Or if you’re looking for something specific, create an account and set up a Lot Alert - we’ll send you a notification of anything meeting your criteria coming up for auction with us.
If you have an item that falls under the categories within 20th century Decorative Arts that you would like valued for auction it couldn’t be easier. You can submit an enquiry via our Valuations Form where you can upload images and details of your items.
From these images our Specialist will be able to give an initial guide into likely auction value. You can share multiple files by emailing our Specialist directly, or alternatively book an appointment to see us in person.
As with any valuation, certain factors will be crucial in determining a more accurate and realistic auction estimate. The condition of an item is especially important to dedicated collectors in this field. Not until our Specialist has seen an item in person would the final auction advice be agreed.
Gildings can also provide professional valuations for individual items or collections, for insurance or probate purposes. As a professional valuation there would be a charge for this service. Please contact us to discuss further.
