Lennox Cato Antiques
An interview with Lennox Cato of Lennox Cato Antiques and Works of Art and a tour of their exhibition ‘It’s all in the Detail’.
Lennox Cato Antiques was established in 1978, specialising in 18th and 19th century furniture and related works of art. First dealing from Brighton, he later moved to Lewes, East Sussex and now has premises in the market town of Edenbridge in Kent.
Tell us about some pieces that you have in this exhibition that particularly stand out for you.
Those would probably be the very rare 18th century crocus pots, they are so exquisite.
The 18th century linen press is the finest I have ever had, it is the most fantastic quality and the mahogany is an amazing colour.
The Ince and Mayhew chair is another favourite. Lovely to see the original decoration, and such a wonderful shape.
Also the large mahogany cellarette is of a stunning design, it has such presence and again is fabulous quality.
The Ince and Mayhew chair is something I have coveted for many years. It's been in a dealer’s collection, once owned by his father who was a very well-known dealer for many years. One day out of the blue the dealer’s son decided some things needed to be sold. I purchased the chair in its un-restored condition. We made a video and put it on social media. It quickly became apparent a pair was on the market by the same maker, with the same detailing, colour etc. but they had sold by the time I found out who had them. So social media works! I bought this fine chair as it said to me, fine design and quality throughout. So this single arm chair was bought with my heart and not with my head, and that is what I say and suggest to my prospective clients, buy what speaks to you, not because it is cheap or expensive. It’s because you like it, or love it! I have now had the chair fully restored and it looks wonderful.
Have you noticed any market changes as a result of the pandemic?
We have definitely seen an upsurge in interest in antiques and furnishing your home with beautiful pieces. As we are all spending more time in our homes we want them to feel luxurious! Also, people are not spending money on expensive holidays and so perhaps have spare funds to spend on their homes.
Are clients buying differently than before? Have you seen any changes in the types of items people are looking for?
Clients are still buying but I am not sure they are buying differently. Generally they are looking for functional and practical pieces that are good quality.
Obviously the pandemic has affected businesses across the world but how has it changed the way your business works and your day to day?
Apart from not being able to do any fairs our day to day work has changed very little. We seem to be extremely busy either working on the website and being proactive with social media, we also have several valuations on the go, and of course hosting our current exhibition ‘It’s all in the Detail’ has taken much time and effort to put together. Through lockdown we have been coming into our office daily even though our shop is not open. There is always something to do!
What are your top tips for new collectors?
We would always say buy what you like and aim to buy pieces that are predominantly in their original condition. Try to buy pieces that need minimal restoration. If you buy from a retail premises items usually are already restored ready for the end user. I always say ‘Why buy broken when you can buy perfect!’ Aim to build a good relationship with a local dealer, or someone you feel comfortable with. You will find you will have a life long relationship that you will learn much from. Make the effort to look round fairs and shops and let your eye become accustomed to looking at good pieces. It’s surprising how quickly your eye can spot pieces at a distance that have that special look!
Take the tour of the exhibition ‘It’s all in the Detail’ below at Lennox Cato’s Kent showrooms or browse the catalogue here.
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