Ep 9. Banqueting House - Part 3

In this episode of Antiques Roadshow UK, we revisit the Banqueting House for part 3 of this series. The Banqueting House is a unique historic building in England that was built in the early 17th century and is the only surviving part of the lost Palace of Whitehall. The show's expert appraisers unpack a number of items including a unique silver cigar box, an iconic portrait of Queen Victoria, and a rare Moorcroft ceramic vase.

The first item brought in for appraisal is a silver cigar box. The box is elaborately decorated with intricate engravings and is beautifully crafted with a unique shape. The experts explain the historical significance of such a box and how it would have been used to store cigars, a luxury item in the early 20th century. They also explore the craftsmanship required to create such an intricate piece and assess its value.

Next up is a portrait of Queen Victoria, painted in 1854 by the artist Franz Xaver Winterhalter. The painting is of particular interest to the appraisers as it is one of the few paintings to show the Queen without her crown, which was a major departure from the norms of the time. The painting is also significant as it was painted during a period of Victoria's life when she was dealing with the grief of losing her beloved husband Prince Albert. The experts explore the portrait's unique history, its artistic value, and its potential price at auction.

The final item brought in for appraisal is a rare Moorcroft ceramic vase. The vase, which features a stunning design of flowers and foliage, was created by Moorcroft pottery company in the early 20th century. The experts explain the significance of Moorcroft pottery and the artistry required to create such intricate designs. They also assess the vase's value and explore the potential market for such an item.

Throughout the episode, the experts also provide interesting anecdotes about each item's history and its connection to British cultural heritage. They explain how each item provides insight into the social, cultural, and artistic developments of the time in which it was created. The show offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of antiques and the experts who appraise them.

In conclusion, this episode of Antiques Roadshow UK offers a diverse range of items for appraisal, each with its unique history and cultural value. The show provides a fascinating insight into British cultural heritage and the stories that lie behind each item. Whether you are a fan of antiques or simply interested in history, this episode is sure to captivate and inspire.