News

Dorset Museum is one of two charities taking part in an ‘Attic and Charity auction’ at Athelhampton House this coming Saturday 25 March from 2:00pm.

Alongside a range of lots being offered by Athelhampton House, including furniture and other items, the Museum is offering auction-goers the chance to bid on opportunities to see behind the scenes and explore the Museum’s collections up close. Fans of the sculptor Elisabeth Frink can bid to explore the Museum’s Frink collection with expert Annette Ratuszniak and see rarely-seen works including original plasters held in storage. Another lot offers the opportunity to become a Curator for the afternoon, working alongside the Museum’s team and with wide-ranging collections including archaeology and fine art.

Two best-selling authors are offering to host book clubs at the Museum. Tracy Chevalier – author of the Girl with the Pearl Earring – is inviting book clubs to bid to spend an afternoon with her discussing one of her own novels, accompanied by prosecco and a homemade cake. Joanna Quinn will be offering an exclusive opportunity for a club to discuss her Sunday Times bestseller The Whalebone Theatre with her.

Other lots up for auction include a week’s holiday in a cottage in Portesham, a Botanical cocktail evening hosted by Around the World in 80 Plants author Jonathan Drori, a tour of the Little Waddon vineyard, and a meal for two at award-winning restaurant Al Molo in Dorchester.

All proceeds from the Dorset Museum lots will go towards the varied and important work the Museum does, as it is an independent charity, with no regular, revenue funding from the public purse. Proceeds will help the Museum to deliver more special exhibitions, learning opportunities for children and young people, and conservation work to stop the degradation of important objects and works of art.

The Athelhampton Attic and Charity Sale will be taking place on Saturday 25 March between 2:00pm – 5:00pm. Viewings are being held on Friday 24th March, 3:00pm – 7:00pm, and Saturday 25th March, 10:00am – 2:00pm.

Bidders can also take part online through Easylive. Please ensure your registration is completed early to avoid disappointment. Commission Bidding and Telephone bidding is also available. For more information please contact Duke’s on 01305 265080 or email [email protected].