Old Masters, British & European and Paintings

Overview

At Catherine Southon, we have expanded our Old Masters, British & European Art Department, offering expert assessment and auction services across a wide range of artistic schools and periods; our specialists handle works from the 15th century through to the early 20th century.

Renaissance, Early Modern and the Dutch Golden Age

Our quarterly Fine & Decorative Arts auctions showcase a selection of early oil paintings, with entry estimates starting from £200. We handle paintings across numerous genres, including:

• Renaissance portraits
• Baroque biblical and mythological scenes
• Grand Tour architectural studies
• Dutch Golden Age still life

Each artwork is diligently researched to ensure accurate cataloguing and strong market positioning.

Romantic and Victorian Art

While the market for Victorian landscape watercolours has softened, demand remains robust for Romantic landscapes by acclaimed artists, such as Caspar David Friedrich and John Constable. Venetian scenes typically command high prices, and a fine example by Peruvian artist, Federico del Campo, sold for £23,000 (+BP). 

Portraiture from the 18th and 19th centuries, including Pre-Raphaelite paintings, also continues to perform well. A notable highlight includes an oil on canvas portrait by Beatrice Gunthorpe, which realised £1,000 (+BP) in our October 2025 sale.

Sporting and Maritime Art 

Sporting Art remains popular, reflecting the nation's love of animals. This genre includes paintings of horse racing, birds, fish, and domestic animals that celebrate the English countryside and traditional sporting pursuits. We welcome entries by Charles Tunnicliff, John Emms, George Earl, and Archibald Thornburn. 

With strong roots in the field, Catherine began her career specialising in Maritime Art, and we continue to achieve excellent results. Recently, a pair of French coastal scenes by Charles Euphrasie Kuwasseg sold for £1,500 (+BP).

Portrait Miniatures

Portrait miniatures have long been treasured as keepsakes. Typically painted on ivory, they are exempt from government restrictions (with appropriate licensing). These pieces are highly collectable when depicting attractive women, military and literary sitters or notable historic figures. A standout example is a remarkable 19th-century portrait of Marie Antoinette that sold at Catherine Southon for £1,400 (+BP).