Woolley and Wallis: Stories of the Sea

An evening of discovery from the specialists at Woolley and Wallis

The renowned auctioneers Woolley and Wallis join us for a special summer evening of fascinating talks exploring objects, histories and discoveries connected by the sea.

Set within the beautiful garden at Arundells, this unique event will feature three specialist speakers from Woolley and Wallis, each offering insight into remarkable objects and the stories they carry across centuries and continents. From the rugged world of 18th-century privateers to the artistic legacy of St Ives pottery, the evening will explore how maritime trade, travel and culture have shaped the objects we treasure today.

Among the speakers will be Japanese art specialist Alexandra Aguilar, who will discuss one of her favourite discoveries brought to auction: a spectacular 17th-century Japanese lacquer cabinet once owned by the Barclays banking dynasty. Through its intricate decoration, the cabinet reveals a vivid story of global exchange, depicting Dutch East India Company ships arriving at the island of Dejima during Japan’s Edo period; a rare and extraordinary glimpse into the meeting of East and West across the seas.

The evening will conclude with an audience question-and-answer session with the speakers.

Further speaker details will be announced shortly.

Event Details

Date: Thursday 23 July
Doors from 5.30pm, talks begin: 7pm
Where: Arundells, 59 Cathedral Close, Salisbury, SP1 2EN
Tickets: £18

We will be running a bar at this event.

About Our Speakers

Alexandra Aguilar joined Woolley and Wallis in 2012. She is an auctioneer, Asian Art specialist and Head of the Japanese Art Department, which she founded in 2018. As well as continuing to hold successful sales, Alexandra is a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Art Scholars and appears on the BBC Antiques Roadshow as an Asian Art specialist.

Woolley and Wallis

Woolley and Wallis was founded in 1884, it holds thirty specialist sales a year, spread between nine departments headed up by leading experts in their field. The saleroom prides itself on combining a high level of expertise and professionalism, with the friendly attitude and personal service that clients have come to expect from this long-standing firm.

Additional Details

There is no parking at Arundells, we recommend using city centre car parks.

All tickets are non refundable but you are very welcome to pass them on to friends or family if you are unable to attend.