Chinese Art from the Collection of Bernard Buckman (1910 – 1991)
The first 120 lots from Chiswick Auctions' Asian Art sale on 14 November 2016 were drawn from the collection of Bernard Buckman (1910–1991). A key figure in shaping Anglo-Chinese economic relations in the 20th century, Buckman's collection offers a rare glimpse into both his personal tastes and his professional achievements.
A Pioneer in Trade with China
Following the Moscow Economic Summit of 1953, Buckman travelled to Beijing as part of an important trade mission. Representing 16 British companies, he was one of three leaders who successfully negotiated £15 million in trade agreements. At the time, commercial contact between Britain and China had been virtually non-existent since the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949.
Buckman chaired a group of British companies trading in metals, minerals, chemicals, machinery and light industrial goods. These companies formed part of the trailblazing ‘48 Group’, among the first to receive permission to trade with China. In 1972, he established Wogen Resources, later honoured by a silver salver presented to him in 1986, offered as lot 106 in this sale.
A Lifelong Cultural Connection
Buckman's travels to China were both frequent and influential. He visited the country more than 50 times, initially once a year from 1953, and then twice a year from 1967. In 1979 he was invited to China as the personal guest of Vice Premier Wang Zhen (1903–1993), reflecting his close ties at the highest levels.
His deep admiration for Chinese culture led to the formation of a significant art collection. It spans from Han Dynasty pottery figures (lot 109) and Ming Dynasty jades (lots 44–45) to 20th-century works, including a striking painting by Qi Baishi (1864–1957) in lot 84, and a 1955 porcelain piece from Jingdezhen (lot 101).
A Collector with Purpose
More than a collector, Buckman was a cultural advocate. His 1983 lecture notes (included in lot 102) show a strong belief in both the historic achievements and the future potential of China. These views were expressed at a time when much of the Western media held an unfavourable view of the country.
Buckman's relationships with cultural figures in China were also remarkable. In lot 88, a piece of calligraphy was gifted to him on his 80th birthday by Pu Zuo (1918–2001), a member of the former imperial family. This personal gift underlines the respect and affection he garnered during his lifetime.
The Allure of the Miniature
A distinct theme in Buckman’s collection is his fascination with miniatures. The sale features:
Thirty-two snuff bottles
Two miniature turquoise boy carvings (lot 38)
Miniature jade landscape plaques (lots 69–70)
A carved ivory clamshell landscape (lot 112)
Miniature nut-carved boats (lot 78)
A bamboo parfumier (lot 81)
A turquoise scholar’s rock (lot 82)
A miniature altar table (lot 92)
Miniature vases (lot 97)
Although the reason for this interest is not known, the collection reflects both Buckman’s individual taste and the significant network of contacts he developed across China.
A Cultural Legacy
In addition to his business achievements, Buckman served as a Governor at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS). A scholarship was later established in his name, reflecting his enduring support for academic and cultural exchange between China and the UK.
Presented by Chiswick Auctions, this important collection is more than a group of beautiful objects. It is a lasting tribute to one man's dedication to building bridges between cultures through art, diplomacy and vision.
Lot 84. QI BAISHI (1864 – 1957). £20,000 – 30,000
If you have Chinese art you would like valued, contact our Asian Art department today for a free and confidential valuation. asian@chiswickauctions.co.uk