Ep 3. Somerleyton (2)

In this episode of Antiques Roadshow UK season 33, the team visits Somerleyton Hall in Suffolk for a second installment of appraisals of antiques and collectibles from the local community. The show begins with a beautiful silver necklace that belonged to the guest's great-grandfather. Expert John Benjamin immediately recognizes the quality of the piece and its significance in history.

Next up is a collection of Staffordshire pottery pieces, including a rare figurine of the legendary smuggler, Jack Rattenbury. Adam Schoon, the expert in ceramics, explains the history behind the piece and the significance of the famous smuggler in local folklore.

The show moves onto furniture with an impressive Victorian flame mahogany library table. The guest reveals that the piece had been passed down within the family for generations, prompting expert Richard Price to discuss the popularity of such pieces during the Victorian era.

A guest brings in a box of miniatures dating back to the 18th century. Expert Hilary Kay takes a closer look at the pieces, intrigued by the varying level of detail of each portrait. She is fascinated by the level of skill required to create these intricate miniatures, highlighting how they were used to court affection in the time before photographs.

Items of jewelry continue to feature prominently, with a guest bringing in a beautiful aquamarine and diamond ring. Kate Bliss, the antique jewelry expert, quickly recognizes the quality of the stone and explains its history. The guest is thrilled to hear the full story behind the piece, learning it once belonged to an Indian maharaja.

The show also features a signed lithograph by celebrated artist Marc Chagall, who is known for his dreamlike paintings and prints. The guest explains how he acquired the piece and the history behind the print, which was originally commissioned to celebrate Chagall's 90th birthday.

Another highlight of this episode is a Regency period folio that depicts local tradesmen from the time, including a shoemaker, blacksmith, and wheelwright. Expert Paul Atterbury discusses how these folios were used as a way of showcasing local color and how they were often commissioned by wealthy landowners.

Wrap-up the episode is a poignant moment as a guest brings in a painting that has been in the family since it was gifted to her great-grandfather in the trenches during World War I. The painting is a portrait of the soldier's beloved dog, Hodge, painted by the soldier himself. Hilary Kay is visibly moved by the emotional connection to the piece and comments on the skill of the soldier both as an artist and a soldier.

Overall, this episode of Antiques Roadshow UK season 33 offers an intriguing mix of local history, art, and fascinating stories behind the items brought in by the guests. The experts provide valuable insights into the significance of each piece and its history, making for a captivating viewing experience.