Andrew Lamberty is one of the leading dealers of his generation.
After leaving Cambridge University, he had a dilemma – paint and create, or head into academia. His decision to enter the art world after leaving Cambridge was a way of uniting his two interests. His first job was driving vans for Bonhams Auctioneers, rapidly progressing to running their furniture department in Chelsea. Two years later, he borrowed £2,000, bought himself a van and became a dealer. He travelled to different auctions around the UK, cutting his teeth and selling to those he knew from the back of his van.
Not surprisingly, success came quickly to Andrew. He puts the secret of his success down to "out-working the opposition and developing a refined eye". And so began a career that progressed to the pursuit of the most rare and beautiful.
He says: "My buying style is impetuous - I know immediately. I experience a very visceral pleasure when I see something very good. It's like a fizz up the spine. That has brought me confidence, and brought me belief in the integrity of what I offer".
Andrew travels extensively, though more by train and plane than van these days. Lamberty buys and sells internationally, with a clientele ranging from royalty to rock stars, to entrepreneurs!
Lamberty is one of the most exciting and stimulating furniture shops in the world. In Andrew’s words: “Visit us and you’ll enter a James Bond world. You’re on an exotic island when you come here. Enjoy yourselves – you’re on holiday!”
Andrew Lamberty first came to UK screens as one of the dealers on the hugely successful Channel 4 primetime show Four Rooms. Andrew has recently finished filming his own show, Auction Hero, due to air later this year on BBC2. The show follows Andrew travelling across Europe, dealing art and beautiful examples of antiques, showing us where we can make sound (and decorative) investments in a tough climate. Each episode culminates in an auction where Andrew aims to sell these items, with all profits going to the struggling local charities who need help most.