19th Century Exhibitions
From the famous Great Exhibition of 1851 to the newly created Masterpiece of 2010, Hancocks has been represented at all important fine art fairs across the globe.
In 1867 Hancocks sent to Paris no less than 17 cases of stock where it remained for eight months. Here the firm triumphed winning several medals of excellence still kept in the firm’s private collection. The Vienna exhibition of 1873 saw them receive the Emperor’s gold medal for science and art in addition to the allusive “Prize medal”.
Detailed costings of this huge exhibition still exist in the Hancocks’ archive, along with an amazing drawing detailing the front of their impressive exhibition stand. Framed in the doorway of the stand is a figure, presumed to be that of Mr. Stewart (previous owner), amongst the vast array of goods on offer. One of these fine items is a pair of parcel-gilt dessert stands. Sadly, there is no record of the asking price in 1873 but these stands did re-enter Hancocks’ stock in 1985 with the princely price-tag of £6,800.
Hancocks’ tradition of exhibiting continues today. In 2009 the collection travelled from London to Maastricht, New York, Miami and beyond. With a more extensive schedule planned for 2010/2011 Hancocks is very much upholding the traditions of their forefathers.
For more details on our Fair and Event calendar please visit our Fairs and Events page.
Hancock’s stand at the Paris Exhibition 1867
Hancock’s stand at the Vienna Exhibition 1873
Hancock’s stand at the Vienna Exhibition 1873