Treasure House Fair shrunk considerably this year.
A lot of the usual exhibitors were absent, replaced by international galleries I had never heard of. In total, there were 54 exhibitors, compared to 74 from last year. This brings it in line with its inaugural edition following the closure of Masterpiece. Was there not enough demand? Rumour has it, the organisers had to invite people to participate.
Thankfully, the new exhibitors filled the gaps well, mainly within modern British art. Additionally, the larger ratio of jewellery dealers was noticeably felt, contributing many beautiful pieces, as well as culturally significant examples associated with historical figures.
While I love this reduced format, which brings it closer to something like LAPADA as the perfectly-sized fair for a manageable visit, I do fear for its future. It’s one of my favourite fairs in London, for the quality of work and for the vibes. I hope it survives another iteration.
These are my highlights:
The Rex Tholomeus portolan chart, 14th century (Peter Harrington, stand 302)
F.C.B. Cadell, Lady in Black and Gold, 1926 (Portland Gallery, stand 307)
John Roddam Spencer Stanhope, Cupid and Psyche, 1878 (Winsor Birch, stand 320)
Julia Ibbini paper sculptures at Long-Sharp Gallery, stand 104)
The Aston Jewel, 1635 (Martyn Downer, stand 115)
Made by the goldsmith Thomas Smithes for Sir Thomas Aston to commemorate his eldest son Robert. It was depicted in the painting Sir Thomas Aston at the Deathbed of his Wife (1635) by John Souch.
The Telegraph has a great article about its rediscovery.
Antony Williams at Messums ORG (stand 218)
Large carved bas-relief wall panel by Sylva Bernt (Foster & Gane, stand 213)
William Lukin, engraved by Joseph Sympson, Sir Robert Walpole’s First Seal Salver, 1717 (S.J. Shrubsole, stand 208)
Frans Francken the Younger, The Departure of the Israelites from Egypt, 17th century (Douwes Fine Art, stand 316)
British Surrealism and Beyond: Treasures from the Southampton City Art Gallery (stand 122)
Treasure House Fair (25-30 June 2026) is at Royal Hospital Chelsea, London, https://www.treasurehousefair.com/
Nigel Ip 
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