For decades, a remarkable collection lay behind the doors of a moorland home in West Yorkshire. While Philip and Sarah Read were known locally for their prize-winning sheep, few knew about their other passion: one of the most extensive private collections of Border Fine Arts in the country.
Now, following Philip’s recent death, their extraordinary collection containing hundreds of pieces will be revealed to the public for the first time when it goes under the hammer on 7th and 8th November.
View the collection going to auction herePhilip and Sarah’s story began when they were introduced by a mutual friend. Philip always said it was love at first sight. Within months, they had married in an intensely private ceremony with only Philip’s parents present as witnesses.
Philip & Sarah Read’s only known photograph together, taken by a friend during a lunch
Sarah, who was local to the area and had worked for the family business until its closure, and Philip, a butcher in his earlier years who later held a position with Yorkshire Water, built their life together around their shared passions.
After marrying, they purchased land and later the house that came with it. In the early days, Sarah would walk daily from their first home on the other side of the moor to tend their sheep, then walk back again.
They went on to win many prizes and awards for their sheep, becoming very accomplished breeders. The front of their home was graced by hundreds of rose bushes, Sarah’s other passion. When they were in bloom, the sight and smell were amazing. Sarah tended them with such care, and Philip was her willing labourer.
Border Fine Arts ‘The Coronation 1953’ (Gold State Coach), model No. B0810 by Ray Ayres, issued 2003, limited edition 110/350, estimated at £150 – £300
But after Sarah’s death, the roses proved too painful a reminder. Philip had them all removed.
Their Border Fine Arts collection grew through regular pilgrimages to Dumfries. The couple would time their drives to arrive as the shop opened, eager to be first in line for the latest releases.
Philip’s relationship with animals had evolved over the years. Once a keen hunter and member of a Lakeland fell group in Cumbria, he gave it up as his love for wildlife deepened.
After Sarah’s passing, Philip lived on in the house they’d shared, surrounded by the collection they’d built together and the memories it held. And just one photo he shared with Julie to cherish, which a friend took during a lunch outing.
The collection can be viewed at Potteries Auctions on Wednesday 5th and Thursday 6th November ahead of the sale on Friday 7th and Saturday 8th November.
Thinking of selling your Border Fine Arts?
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Our team of expert valuers are available every Tuesday from 9am-3:30pm at our Silverdale saleroom, where they can value your Border Fine Arts and advise you on consigning to auction. To book a free appointment, use our online form here.
You can also email us at enquiries@potteriesauctions.com, or call us on 01782 638100 for further information or any enquiries.