Ep 22. Vintage Cleveland

Vintage Cleveland is the 22nd episode of the 21st season of Antiques Roadshow UK. In this episode, the Antiques Roadshow team visits Middlesbrough Town Hall in Cleveland to appraise various antiques and collectables brought in by members of the public.

The episode starts with a real surprise as one woman turns up with a magnificent item that has been passed down through her family for generations – a rare and valuable painting by one of the most celebrated British artists of the 18th century. The expert appraisers take a close look at the painting and are amazed by its condition and its provenance, which leads to a fascinating discussion about the artist's life and work.

In the next segment, we meet a gentleman who brings in a collection of vintage toys and board games from the 1950s and 60s. He explains that some of the toys are still in their original packaging, and the games include popular titles such as Monopoly, Cluedo and Scrabble. The expert assesses the items and provides a valuation, and the owner is delighted to discover that his childhood collection is worth a significant amount of money.

Next up is a woman who has brought in a number of pieces of jewellery that once belonged to her grandmother. She explains that her grandmother was always very stylish and loved to wear bold, statement pieces, and the experts agree that the items are distinctive and very attractive. The experts appreciate the designs and materials used in the pieces and provide an estimate of their value.

Another item that is brought in for appraisal is a beautiful antique writing desk that has been in the same family for generations. The desk is exquisitely crafted and intricately detailed, featuring numerous compartments and hidden drawers. The experts assess the writing desk and its history, and they come to a valuation.

There are also a number of miscellaneous items brought in by members of the public, including vintage books, sporting memorabilia, and even a strange clock that seems to have been inspired by Salvador Dali's melting clocks. Each of these items is closely examined by the expert appraiser, and a valuation is provided based on its condition, rarity, and demand on the market.

Throughout the episode, viewers are taken on a journey through the history of each item, discovering fascinating stories and insights about the people who owned and used them. The expert appraisers provide not only valuations but also context and historical perspectives that give the items meaning and significance beyond their monetary value, making the show a thrilling and informative journey of discovery.

Overall, Vintage Cleveland is an engrossing and entertaining episode of Antiques Roadshow UK, filled with surprising finds, intriguing stories, and insightful appraisals.