The auction follows the success of the Dreweatts' Aynhoe Park sale in January 2021 which captivated collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Perkins’s collection at Parnham Park, takes its influence from the elegant decay of the house and estate, as well as the Jurassic beauty of the wider Dorset landscape. This giant cabinet of curiosities promises to be an exceptional and enchanting celebration of his Grand Tour travels encompassing natural history – the Jurassic, art and furniture design. The auction presents a compelling opportunity for buyers, interior designers, museums and curators to acquire unique objects that blend the old and the new, from important prehistoric whole skeletons, fossils, ‘Grand Tour’ sculptures and antiques to bespoke furniture and works of art by renowned contemporary creators including Damien Hirst, Jacques Duval Brasseur and James Perkins himself. While the auction will take place at Dreweatts Newbury, collectors will be given the opportunity to explore the collection in situ at Parnham Park.

James Perkins: Visionary Collector, Conceptual Artist and Curator

At the heart of this extraordinary Grand Tour collection lies the inimitable vision of James Perkins’ travels and adventures. Perkins's roots lie in the music and entertainment industry which has evolved him into a visionary collector whose refined taste and discerning eye has inspired the creation of this world-class collection of objects that transcend time, design and geographic boundaries. His collection is an embodiment of his lifelong fascination with the synthesis of nature, art and craftsmanship, as well as his passion for iconic design. It is the physical manifestation of his philosophy that objects should not just be owned, but be experienced, admired and appreciated as living, breathing pieces of art and history. Every room at Parnham Park is filled with treasures that showcase Perkins’s ability to blend the past with the present in a way that feels both timeless and cutting edge. In creating this collection, he has found an enchanting setting where objects speak not only to aesthetic sensibilities, but also to intellectual curiosity. From paleontological wonders to design furniture, each piece is intentionally selected to challenge perceptions and spark a narrative that weaves together cultural history, artistic tradition and creative innovation.

As a concept artist, Perkins brings a distinctive creative vision marrying whimsical design with classical aesthetics, drawing from history, while simultaneously looking to the future. Designed to stir wonder, curiosity and a sense of joy, much in the same way that the original Grand Tour journeyed across Europe to uncover the wonders of art, culture and history.

Parnham Park: The Setting for a Modern Grand Tour

Parnham Park is a magnificent 16th-century Grade I stately home set in 139 acres of Dorset parkland that has long captivated heritage enthusiasts. With a history that dates as far back as the 15^th century, it underwent significant renovations in the early 1800s under the direction of the celebrated architect, John Nash, responsible for Buckingham Palace, Regent Street and the Royal Pavilion, Brighton. In 2017 disaster struck and the property suffered a catastrophic fire leading to many questioning its future. However, Perkins saw an opportunity rather than a set back and, with his vision, entrepreneurial spirit and passion for architecture and heritage, he embraced the challenge of restoring Parnham Park to its former glory, working in partnership with the acclaimed architect, Thomas Heatherwick.  

James Perkins’s influence at Parnham Park goes beyond restoration. His visionary masterplan will transform the estate into a living testament to the intersection of history, creativity and innovation. The estate is a sanctuary of beauty, where art and nature harmoniously co-exist.

A Modern Grand Tour: Reimagining the Classical Journey of Discovery

Perkins’s collection is a continuation of the spirit of the Grand Tours of 17^th and 18^th centuries when wealthy Europeans would travel across the continent to appreciate its art, culture and history.

Restoration, Rejuvenation, Reinvention

Proceeds from the auction will go towards the continued restoration of Parnham Park, helping to preserve its architectural integrity while creating a sustainable future for the estate for many years to come establishing it as a destination for art lovers and design enthusiasts.

Commenting on the sale, James Perkins said, “I’m thrilled to unveil this new chapter in Parnham Park’s story and invite lovers of design and collecting to discover our latest ‘Modern Grand Tour’, a cacophony of curiosities and eccentricities inspired by the Jurassic surroundings. From dinosaur skeletons to bespoke creations, classicism to cutting edge, each piece reflects the joy of collecting and the wonder of discovery. This sale also marks an important milestone in Parnham’s evolution ahead of some major structural repair, as the proceeds will help us restore the estate to its former glory and establish a unique destination for lovers of art, design, and grand entertainment.”

Joe Robinson, Head of House Sales and Private Collections at Dreweatts, said, “We’re delighted to partner with James Perkins once again for this extraordinary auction. His collection is an exceptional amalgamation of historical treasures, natural wonders, and imaginative designs - all under one roof. This is a rare opportunity for interior designers, collectors and enthusiasts to explore sensational lots and be part of Parnham Park’s transformative journey.”

Auction Details

Tuesday 13 May, 10.30am BST
Auction venue: Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE
Viewing venue: Parnham Park, Beaminster, Dorset DT8 3LZ

Auction coming soon!
Sign up to email alerts