A Tale of Two Monkeys: Adventures in the Art World

Anthony Speelman is a renowned English art dealer specializing in Dutch Golden Age art, and his memoirs offer fascinating insight into the secretive world of Old Masters. He has sold paintings to world-renowned collectors and museums, and his encounters with these eminent bodies are written in a light-hearted style. The book also details his adventures in California, New York, and Paris, his interest in gastronomy, and his adventures in horseracing.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2022
Publisher: Paul Holberton Publishing Ltd

Anthony Speelman is a renowned expert in Dutch Golden Age art, and his memoirs provide a captivating glimpse into the enigmatic world of Old Masters. Written in a vivid and engaging style, the book appeals to a wide range of readers, including art dealers, collectors, and enthusiasts alike.

Speelman's career in the art world began under the mentorship of his father, Edward, who was also a prominent figure in the field. Throughout his career, Speelman has facilitated the sale of paintings to some of the world's most renowned collectors, including Norton Simon, Paul Mellon, Baron Thyssen, Harold Samuel, Charles Clore, and the Wrightsmans in New York. He has also sold artworks to prestigious museums such as the Getty, the Louvre, and the National Gallery in London.

In his memoirs, Speelman shares anecdotes about his encounters with these eminent figures, showcasing his light-hearted and entertaining approach. One particularly amusing anecdote involves a meeting with a Chinese billionaire who had a penchant for fine wine. Speelman describes how he discovered a rare George Stubbs painting of a monkey holding a peach at a Sothebys sale, referring to it as a "sleeper" that eventually fetched a substantial price.

The title of the book, "Two Monkeys," is derived from two paintings by George Stubbs, known for his exceptional skill in portraying animals. Speelman recounts how he came across one of these masterpieces while working as a vetting committee member at the annual Maastricht art fair. Interestingly, his early career was marked by a burglary, where his Piccadilly rooms were broken into, and several paintings, including a George Stubbs painting of a spaniel, were stolen.

Despite this setback, Speelman's determination and perseverance led to the recovery of the stolen paintings eighteen months later. The incident ended with a failed blackmail attempt by the thieves, who were eventually apprehended by the authorities.

Speelman's achievements extend beyond his art dealing career. He served as the chairman of the vetting committee at the Maastricht art fair for many years, contributing to the selection and evaluation of prestigious artworks. His expertise and integrity in the art world have earned him widespread respect and recognition.

In conclusion, Anthony Speelman's memoirs offer a fascinating and insightful journey into the world of art dealing, providing a glimpse into the lives of renowned collectors, artists, and the art market itself. Written in a captivating style, the book appeals to a wide range of readers and serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the fine art world.

Weight: 950g
Dimension: 207 x 268 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913645304