LAPADA Excellence Awards 2026

LAPADA Excellence Awards 2026 – The Winners

The LAPADA Excellence Awards 2026 celebrate outstanding craftsmanship, exceptional curation, distinguished provenance and remarkable objects across the art and antiques trade.

Craftsmanship Award – Mary Cooke Antiques

Object: The Gorges Cups & Covers

These Queen Anne silver-gilt cups were made in 1702 by Huguenot goldsmith Pierre Platel, whose workshop became a significant part of English silver-making history. The celebrated Paul de Lamerie became an apprentice in Platel’s workshop the following year. The cups formed part of the renowned Gorges plate collection and later belonged to Lord Rosebery and Hannah Rothschild at Mentmore. Their exceptional craftsmanship and distinguished provenance make them important examples of early eighteenth-century English silver.

Provenance Award – Timothy Millett

Object: Gold Badge Commemorating George III’s Recovery

This rare gold badge was presented by Queen Charlotte to members of the Royal Household in 1789 to commemorate George III’s recovery from the illness that had precipitated a significant constitutional crisis. The King’s recovery thwarted efforts by the Prince of Wales and his political allies to establish a Regency, securing William Pitt’s position as Prime Minister. With a comparable example held in the Royal Collection, the badge offers a fascinating connection to the political intrigue of the Georgian court.

Best Object Award – Tony Fell

Object: Georgian Chinese Export Cabinet

Made in Canton circa 1840, this extraordinary Chinese export lacquer secretaire cabinet stands over two metres tall. It combines a European-inspired form with elaborate Chinese lacquer decoration, including gilded dragons, intricate figural landscapes and rare reverse-glass paintings depicting Chinese dignitaries. The richly decorated interiors and remarkable attention to detail demonstrate the cabinet’s exceptional craftsmanship. Closely related examples are held in the Royal Collection and the Rhode Island Historical Society, highlighting its historical significance and its place within the cultural exchange that characterised the China trade.

Committee’s Choice Award – Howard Walwyn

Object: The Sutton Court Great Chamber Clock

This exceptional chamber clock is distinguished by its carefully constructed, dark-stained case, architectural detailing, moulded cornices and finely executed panelled surfaces. Its intricate brass dial features decorative pierced cresting and elegant engraved details, contrasting beautifully with the understated case. The clock exemplifies the combination of mechanical ingenuity and architectural elegance associated with traditional English clockmaking.

Its provenance connects it to Sutton Court in Somerset, associated with Elizabeth Hardwick, Lady St Loe. The property was subsequently inherited by John Strachey in 1672, a detail confirmed by an inventory dated 1674–75. The clock was sold in the 1990s.

Curation Award – McBain & Byrne

Celebrating Excellence

Congratulations to all the winners of the LAPADA Excellence Awards 2026. Their achievements highlight the exceptional knowledge, craftsmanship and dedication that continue to enrich the art and antiques trade.