An ever-changing array of fascinating art and antiques

Tennants Auctioneers is privileged to handle a diverse range of art, antiques and rare and beautiful objects with a rich history. From large private Country House collections to exquisite 18th century costume, colourful Moorcroft pottery to vintage toys and train sets, we have the opportunity to display many fascinating objects for visitors to enjoy before they once more return to a private collection and away from public sight.

Open seven days a week, the Galleries are free for all to enjoy.

A unique facility

Our state of the art display galleries allow us to showcase your items and collections ahead of sale and to promote the many fascinating, rare and beautiful objects we are privileged to handle.  

To discuss exhibiting your collection ahead of sale at Tennants, please speak to your valuer or specialist.

MODERN & CONTEMPORARY ART

2nd March 2019

A powerful bronze by York sculptor Sally Arnup is on display ahead of its sale in March. 'Lioness Walking' was made in 1969, and is signed and numbered 10 from a limited edition of ten. At 46cm high, the lioness is an imposing yet graceful example of the artist's work.

Sally Arnup (1930-2015) was one of the finest figurative bronze sculptors of her age, and had a well earned reputation both nationally and internationally. Born in London, she began to train at Kingston Art college at the tender age of 13. Going on to spend a year at Camberwell College of Art, and then moving to the Royal College of Art she was taught by the likes of John Skeaping, Frank Dobson and Dr Karel Vogel. After marring fellow artist Mick Arnup in 1953, the couple settled in York, where she was to become the head of sculpture ad York College of Art.

Known for her naturalistic depictions of domestic pets and native livestock, the lioness is a rare example of the exotic in her work. She believed in studying her subject in it's natural state - in the field or garden. Indeed she wrote in a letter to the vendor of the lioness, "The sculpture was made from a Lioness at Flamingo Park Zoo near York- she was not a commission although most of my work is commissioned. I work directly from the animal either in the studio or in the field on domestic, farm or wild life subjects, for choice British animals. As a young person I had a free pass to London Zoo".

Estimate: £3,000-5,000