Featured: The Spring Art Sale

As the days grow longer and the first signs of spring begin to appear, it’s the perfect time to discover something new for your collection. Our Spring Art Sale at David Duggleby is a seasonal highlight, celebrating some of the finest works in the art world. This exclusive auction brings together an outstanding selection of fresh-to-market pieces, private lifetime collections and remarkable individual masterpieces, spanning a variety of genres and periods.

Whether you're a dedicated collector or making your first purchase, this is a rare opportunity to acquire extraordinary artworks that reflect centuries of creativity and style. Don't miss your chance to take home a truly special piece.

Viewing times:
Tuesday 11th – Thursday 13th March | 9am – 4:30pm
Friday 14th March | From 9am
The sale begins from 11am on Friday 14th March.

In this blog, we’ll be sharing some of our favourite highlights from the sale, which includes tranquil countryside landscapes, atmospheric autumnal scenes, dramatic maritime views, and compelling figurative works, each offering a unique glimpse into the artistry and stories behind them.

_{Above, Left to Right: Lot 1, Lot 11 and Lot 60.}

These paintings bring a wonderful selection of green and tranquil outdoor scenes, capturing the beauty of the countryside. Lot 1, Pastoral River Valley with Sheep and Horses Grazing by Herbert F Royle, is a serene depiction of rolling fields and peaceful farm animals, inviting viewers into a timeless rural landscape (£800–£1,200). Lot 11, Green Bridge and Richmond Castle by Frederick Stead, offers a striking view of nature and history intertwined, featuring the imposing silhouette of Richmond Castle beyond lush greenery (£1,200–£1,800). Meanwhile, Lot 60, Ponies and Chickens in the Farmyard by James William Booth, is a charming farmyard scene alive with movement and rustic charm, painted by a key figure of the Staithes Group (£3,000–£5,000). These works celebrate the peaceful beauty of the countryside, perfect for anyone looking to bring a touch of nature indoors.

_{Above: Lot 167.}

Adding a warm, autumnal glow to the sale, Lot 167, Bolton Abbey by William Mellor, captures the historic beauty of this beloved Yorkshire landmark. Bathed in rich golden tones, the scene evokes the crisp air and changing colours of the season, with the abbey ruins nestled among rolling hills and a gently flowing river. Mellor’s signature attention to light and detail brings the landscape to life, making this an inviting and atmospheric piece. With an estimate of £2,000–£3,000, it’s a stunning addition for those who appreciate the charm of Britain’s countryside in autumn.

_{Above, Left to Right: Lot 157, Lot 32 and Lot 27.}

For those drawn to the drama and beauty of the sea, our maritime selection offers a rich variety of coastal scenes and nautical history. Lot 157, Ships at Anchor in Whitby Harbour by Richard Weatherill, captures the quiet charm of Whitby’s bustling port, with moored vessels reflected in calm waters (£1,500–£2,500). Stepping into the world of competitive sailing, Lot 32, 'Westwood and Britannia Racing off the Royal Yacht Squadron – Cowes' by Richard M Firth, is a dynamic portrayal of yachts cutting through the waves, steeped in the elegance of British sailing heritage (£2,000–£3,000). Meanwhile, Lot 27, 'Scarborough Castle and Harbour' by Alexander Jamieson, brings together history and seascape, with the imposing ruins of the castle overlooking the lively harbour below (£800–£1,200). Whether it’s the peaceful atmosphere of Whitby, the thrill of yacht racing, or the rugged charm of Scarborough’s coastline, these maritime pieces capture the enduring allure of life by the sea.

_{Above, Left to Right: Lot 225, Lot 236 and Lot 54.}

Bringing a human element to the sale, this selection of figure-focused works captures moments of history, daily life, and artistic interpretation. Lot 225, 'Rimbaud and Verlaine – First Meeting' by Patrick Procktor, is an intimate watercolour depicting the fateful encounter of the two famous poets, rendered in the artist’s distinctive, expressive style (£500–£800). In contrast, Lot 236, Spanish Fruit Seller by Thomas Brooks of Hull, offers a richly detailed and characterful portrait of a street vendor, painted with warmth and realism in 1869 (£800–£1,200). Meanwhile, Lot 54, Girls on the Steps at Cowbar – Staithes by Robert Jobling, captures a quiet, everyday moment in the fishing village, highlighting the artist’s connection to the Staithes Group and their focus on working-class coastal life (£1,200–£1,800). Each of these works tells a story, offering a fascinating glimpse into different worlds through the eyes of the artist.

With such a diverse selection of artworks on offer, there’s something to inspire every collector. Whether you're drawn to timeless classics or contemporary pieces, now is the perfect time to find something special.

Browse the catalogue and place your bids now to secure your next treasured piece.