ANTIQUE auctioneers Greenslade Taylor Hunt once again demonstrated the breadth and scope of their expertise at the November monthly sale.

Fresh from the mammoth on-site auction of the fixtures and fittings of Grade II* listed Dillington House, Ilminster, just a few days before, the auctioneers returned to The Octagon Salerooms, East Street, Taunton, for their regular sale.

However, this proved to be no run-of-the-mill event, with a couple of architectural lots consigned by the descendants of eminent architect Robert Mylne, renowned for designing Blackfriars Bridge, in London, sparking keen interest online and over the phone.

Dr Peter Rixon, GTH’s book specialist, said: “It is unclear precisely whose hand was at work as the drawings were unsigned.

"They were obviously completed by a competent draughtsman artist as both the perspective and the detail are extremely good.

"Most appear to have been undertaken during a ‘professional’ grand tour, chiefly to Italy, Switzerland and Germany, in around 1840.”

A phone bidder triumphed in the effort to gain ownership and paid £2,800.

Another collection of mounted architectural sketches believed to have been the work of Robert Mylne made £1,700.

Another notable item in the book section was a Jamaica Almanack, which had arrived at the saleroom via a routine valuation. This key artefact sold for £2,400.

“It was plucked from a consignment of very mixed books the remainder of which we politely declined. It dates to an interesting period, from just before the abolition of the slave trade in the British Empire, and sheds an important light on the administration and affairs of the island colony,” said Dr Rixon.

The international nature of the sale continued through the silver section where a cutlery canteen by renowned North American Massachusetts silversmiths, Towle, was the undoubted highlight. In excellent condition this cased flatware eight-piece setting in the popular King Richard pattern sold for £1,000.

Preparations are already in hand for the two December sales – the antiques sale on Thursday, December 7, followed by the collectors’ sale on Friday, December 8.

To consign items or seek advice from the experienced team of valuers, contact the saleroom on 01823 332525.