Legendary English antique dealership Sampson and Horne's collection of British pottery and furniture went under the hammer yesterday (28 April) at Bonhams in London.

Overall, the auction was a huge success, achieving a total of £1,056,000 with 91% of lots sold by value.

The auction lasted all day with 740 lots on offer, but the saleroom remained packed throughout with many of their loyal customers attending in person - a poignant reminder of their many visits to Sampson and Horne's shops.

While estimates had been set cautiously, in many cases fierce competition among private collectors meant prices in the auction were at retail levels.

Of particular interest were two fine London delftware blue-dash Royal portrait chargers, which fetched £19,600 and £13,200 respectively against pre-sale estimates of £8,000-12,000.

A fine London delftware blue-dash Royal portrait charger, circa 1690-1705

Also fetching a high price were a late 18th century pair of life sand paintings sold for £16,800, having been estimated at £4,000-6,000.

A Charles II commemorative cup, thought to have been made to celebrate the Restoration of Charles II in 1660, sold for £15,600.

Jonathan Horne, and Alistair Sampson before him, were among the most respected dealers in London and for nearly 40 years had been regular buyers at Bonhams.

"This is the kind of sale Jonathan and Alistair would have loved themselves, said Bonhams' Director of Ceramics, John Sandon.

• More news on Art and Unique items
• Enjoy the read? Don't forget to sign up for your free newsletter with exclusive content