Beginnings

After early experience in engineering and antique shipping, Eric Knowles joined London-based auctioneers Bonham’s in their ceramics department. Within five years Eric was head of the department and was offered a full directorship in 1985. Eric has since become an established expert in a number of fields, and has published widely on subjects including Art Deco, Art Nouveau and Victoriana.

Lecturer

Eric Knowles has lectured across the UK and North America, including at the V&A and the British Museum, and at several universities. Eric speaks widely across the country, and leads antique tours to cities including Berlin, Lisbon and Prague. Eric has served as antiques expert for the Sunday Times, and has contributed to Antiques magazine, BBC Home, and ARC magazine.

Television Appearances

Over the years, Eric Knowles has developed a distinctive media profile for his work, with appearances on shows including Going For A Song, 20th Century Roadshow, Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is and Clash of the Collectables. Eric is perhaps best known for his work on Antiques Roadshow, on which he has appeared many times. More generally, Eric has appeared on shows including Richard & Judy, This Morning, Celebrity Eggheads and Celebrity Mastermind. Eric Knowles is an ambassador for the Prince’s Trust, and has supported charities including FABLE, Headway and Action for Children. Eric received the Freedom of the City of London in 2000.

The Antiques Roadshow expert, Eric Knowles is a Director of Bonhams, responsible for many of the more unusual auctions, from spectacles to coffin plates. Eric also has a rare gift for story telling, sharing his knowledge in a way that both enlightens and makes audiences crease with laughter.

Eric Knowles Speaker Event Activities

The Bonhams director and BBC Antiques Roadshow expert passes around a number of unfamiliar objects and invites guests to estimate their age, use, country of origin and potential saleroom value. Eric Knowles is as comfortable with small groups as he is with large gatherings, with tables playing as teams combining novices and antiques enthusiasts. Whatever their nationality or level of knowledge, every participant will find it a hugely entertaining and enriching experience.