Bonhams to Auction Rare 15th-Century Royal Heraldic Embroideries in London
The Facts
On April 30, 2026, Bonhams announced it will offer a pair of mid-to-late-15th-century royal heraldic embroideries at its Fine Decorative Arts sale in London on July 2, 2026. The silver-and-gold-thread panels, each depicting a crowned figure emerging from a three-towered castle likely representing the Kingdom of Castile, carry an estimate of £200,000–300,000. Radiocarbon dating and silver testing date the textiles to pre-1600, with technical and art historical evidence pointing to roughly 1460–1520. Bonhams cataloguer Oliver Cornish called the pieces rare survivors that provide a tangible connection to the 15th-century Castilian court, possibly depicting Kings John II and Henry IV.
The Signal
The consignment underscores the strength of the market for medieval textiles and objects with royal provenance. Collectors are increasingly drawn to works that combine art historical mystery with direct links to European courts, and the possible depiction of father-and-son monarchs adds a layer of dynastic narrative. A sale estimate of £200,000–300,000 reflects the rarity of such survivals, while the scientific dating bolsters confidence in authenticity for prospective bidders.
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- People: Oliver Cornish, John II, Henry IV, John of Gaunt, Catherine of Lancaster, Alfonso VIII
- Auction Houses: Bonhams
- Locations: London
- Prices: £200,000-300,000
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