A rare collection of Beatrix Potter memorabilia and first editions – plus a large number of Percy Kelly paintings from a private collection – are set to go under the hammer at Mitchells later this year.
The Beatrix Potter collection has been entered for sale by the family of the world famous writer and illustrator and includes a substantial quantity of personal letters, illustrations and first editions.
The Cockermouth auctioneers said: “Due to the impeccable provenance of the collection and Beatrix Potter’s global celebrity, the items are expected to generate keen interest among collectors worldwide.
“Mitchells are encouraging others who may have original Beatrix Potter artefacts to consider entering them for sale alongside this rare collection.”
The sale, from September 16 to September 18 will also include Percy Kelly paintings from the Joan David private collection which have never been sold on the open market.
Mitchell’s saleroom already holds the all-time auction record for a Percy Kelly of £7,200 achieved for Red Bridge Near Aspatria in September 2025.
They expect the forthcoming sale to attract substantial interest among art collectors and anticipate one of the paintings, which have never been sold on the open market, will set a new auction record.
Owners of Percy Kelly artwork are encouraged to benefit from the interest in the sale and consider entering their paintings or illustrated letters for auction.
Mitchells head of antiques & fine art James Moore said: “To have two major collections of this calibre and provenance in our next sale is almost unprecedented so we wanted to give potential vendors advance notice of the opportunity to benefit from the undoubted interest it will generate among buyers.
“Collectors from all over the world will be drawn to this sale so their items will reach a global market through online marketing and bidding.”
For free valuations of Beatrix Potter or Percy Kelly items for potential sale, contact James Moore on 01900 827800.
Entries are also still open for Mitchells Vintage & Antique Toy Sale on Thursday July 30.
For free valuations of items for potential sale contact David Lomas on 01900 827800. Entries close on Friday July 10.
Mitchells offer free valuations by appointment at its Cockermouth saleroom and home visits by arrangement, including in the South Lakes and Furness.
Free valuation event
Mitchells is also holding a free valuation event at Blindcrake Village Hall on Saturday July 11 from 10am to 2pm in aid of St Michael’s Church in Isel.
Just turn up with items, no appointment needed. Alternatively, valuation requests and photographs can be emailed to [email protected].
Valuation services for insurance and probate and house clearances are also available. Contact Mitchells now on 01900 827800 to arrange.
