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Important oil paintings, including examples by Edward Seago, from the Guernsey home of philanthropist John ‘CJ’ Burley are tipped to excel at auction this month.
Three works by royal favourite Seago, one of Britain’s best known and most widely collected artists, could achieve up to £25,000 each in Martel Maides Auctions’ November 20-21 Winter Fine Art, Antiques and Jewellery Auction in Guernsey.
The signed paintings include an atmospheric wintry view of London’s Trafalgar Square, estimated at £15,000-25,000, and two equestrian subjects, Herringbone and other Mares in a Paddock’, carrying an £8,000-12,000 estimate and The Bicester Hunt estimated at £10,000-15,000.
All graced the walls of Cedar Hill, Mount Durand, the former home of the late Mr Burley, a well-known businessman and philanthropist who made Guernsey his home. Mr Burley, known as CJ, passed away at the age of 78 in 2023.
A spokesperson for Martel Maides Auctions (MMA) said: “These sought after artworks reflect Mr Burley’s life, passions and informed taste. He owned racehorses for 40 years with trainers such as Sir Henry Cecil. He was also a much-respected steward who presided over race meetings in Guernsey and Jersey.
“We have high hopes for these important paintings. In 2023, a lost Constable doubled its top estimate to sell for £200,000 at MMA. That success continues to attract significant works of art and jewellery from private collections on the island.”
Guy Cooper, MMA paintings specialist and auctioneer, said: “Among the pantheon of post-war British artists, Edward Brian Seago ranks among the most highly regarded. His soft and atmospheric Post-Impressionist style has won many admirers including several members of the royal family and galleries across the UK.
“His work has been offered by eminent art dealers such as Colnaghi, Richard Green, Marlborough and Portland Galleries among others. To quote King Charles III, ‘Seago’s gifts will long be remembered, valued and loved. His work was in the best tradition of that particularly English school of landscape artists, with which few others can compare’.”
MMA said: “It’s an honour to offer artworks admired and enjoyed by Mr Burley. He moved to Guernsey in 1973 after the sale of his family’s business. He lived in the same house for 50 years. His much-loved home, Cedar Hill, was the setting for many an impressive party for his large circle of friends. It was also a museum to souvenirs from his colourful and considerable life.
“Mr Burley toured the world with Marylebone Cricket Club and became a stalwart of Guernsey Island Cricket Club. He was a founding member of the Guernsey branch of the Lord’s Taverners. He owned racehorses for 40 years, with trainers such as Sir Henry Cecil. He was also a much-respected steward. He presided over race meetings in Guernsey and Jersey.
“His eclectic interests included golf, his beloved United Club, Bucks Club in London, the Masonic lodges of which he was a member, and Floral Guernsey. He did all of this while sharing his considerable business acumen as chairman of Island FM and Les Riches Group. Those who experienced his after-dinner speeches could not help but be in awe of his experiences, friendships and wit.
“Larger than life but unwaveringly kind, Mr Burley was as comfortable in his own company as he was with royalty and made everyone in between feel quite special. He is missed by all who knew him. It is timely that these paintings come auction now in the month that mark’s the first anniversary of his death. Mr Burley passed away on November 29, 2023.”
