We are honoured to announce Holkham | The Attic Sale, a once-in-a-lifetime auction that marks a historic first for Holkham Hall, Norfolk. Under the instruction of Thomas Edward Coke, 8th Earl of Leicester, this unique event will take place on 11 February 2025, showcasing over 400 treasures that have resided in the storerooms, attics, and cellars of this renowned Palladian estate.
Holkham Hall, originally built by Thomas Coke, 1st Earl of Leicester, in the mid-18th century, is celebrated for its classical architecture and the remarkable art collection amassed by the 1st Earl during his Grand Tour of Europe. Although the primary collection remains intact as he intended, successive generations have added their own acquisitions, filling the hall’s hidden spaces with a wide array of furniture, art, and collectables. Now, these items—some treasured for centuries by the Coke family—are set to find new homes.
Among the standout lots are Roman marble fragments collected by the 1st Earl, and 18th- and 19th-century plaster busts. The catalogue also includes Victorian china, clocks, and an array of furniture, blending high-value pieces with more accessible items that capture the spirit of a classic ‘attic sale.’
Lord Leicester, who has managed the estate since 2006, sees the sale as a chance to breathe new life into these artifacts. He admits to mixed feelings, describing himself as ‘something of a hoarder’ but noting that a ‘cathartic decluttering’ was needed, especially as Holkham has introduced popular behind-the-scenes tours of its attics and cellars. Working closely with experts, Lord and Lady Leicester have carefully curated the collection to ensure it offers a compelling and varied selection.
The Earl and Countess of Leicester. Image | Grahame Mellanby FRSA
As we prepare for the highly anticipated Holkham | The Attic Sale, we had the honour of speaking with Thomas Edward Coke, the 8th Earl of Leicester. In this exclusive interview, Lord Leicester delves into the process of curating this extraordinary collection, a treasure trove that spans centuries of history, craftsmanship, and personal legacy. From exploring the rich heritage of Holkham Hall - renowned as one of England’s most iconic stately homes - to sharing his vision for its future, Lord Leicester provides a compelling insight into the art of balancing preservation with progress.
Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the Sea, Norfolk NR23 1AB (NR23 1RH for sat nav)
privatecollections@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778
Holkham Hall is acknowledged as one of the great country houses of Britain. And now, over 400 items from its attics and cellars, selected by the Earl and Countess of Leicester, will be offered for sale in a once-in-a-lifetime auction on 11 February 2025.
17 December 2024
Holkham is, without doubt, one of today’s greatest English estates. Encompassing a honey-toned palatial mansion within 25,000 acres of green land, it's also an employer to hundreds of local people and a tourist destination attracting around one million visitors a year. But the Coke family have been at Holkham for over 400 years, and without the actions of multiple generations before, it would not be what it is today.
17 December 2024
