Specialists in 19th Century British & European Oil Paintings
Academy Fine Paintings is an international fine art dealership based in Buckinghamshire, England specialising in 19th century British and European oil paintings by some of the most important artists of the period. Our online gallery features fine examples of Victorian landscape paintings, subject pictures, and Belle Epoque portraiture.
Quality & Condition
Inspired by a connoisseur’s eye for excellence and authenticity, Academy Fine Paintings is a gallery founded on the principles and preoccupations of an art collector rather than just the motivations of an art dealer. Consequently, our focus is on works of art of genuine artistic significance by historically important painters whose reputation has stood the test of time. In other words, on quality rather than quantity.
Before being offered for sale our paintings undergo a full technical assessment by one of the UK's most experienced fine art conservators and any necessary restoration carried out to the highest professional standards.Professional Associations
Academy Fine Paintings is a proud member of LAPADA, the largest UK trade association of art & antiques dealers and CINOA, the International Confederation of Art & Antique Dealers, meaning that clients can buy with confidence in the knowledge that membership is only open to expert dealers who abide by a strict code of practise.
Transparancy & Expertise
It remains commonplace to browse dealer websites and the galleries of Bond Street and St. James and see paintings, like multimillion dollar real estate, offered for sale with the words "Price Upon Request". Is it so unreasonable to expect to be told what an item costs without having to ask? We do not believe so. Dealers persist with this obfuscation for various reasons which in principle are all harmless enough but in practice the absence of a clearly visible price tag is annoying, particularly to new clients and, rather than the rarified air of "exclusivity" the dealer was hoping to evoke, suggests elitism and good old-fashioned snobbery. If H.R. Owen’s prestigious Mayfair showroom is happy to let every passer-by know that the Ferrari F12 in the window is going to set them back £875,000 what makes an art dealer believe the price of a painting should be shrouded in secrecy? This lack of transparency is particularly condescending to first time art buyers - ironically some of our wealthiest and most enthusiastic clients - to whom the message is clear; “If you have to ask the price, you cannot afford it”. That is not the way we do business.
At Academy Fine Paintings we prefer a more inclusive and straightforward approach. Every painting we offer for sale on our gallery page is listed with a clearly displayed purchase price, all known exhibition and ownership provenance, and comprehensive (yet relevant) biographical details about the artist. These biographies – like the editorials published on our News & Articles page – are written by me based upon my own extensive knowledge of and passion for the artists and art movements of the period, and never simply copied from Wikipedia.
Who Am I Dealing With?
My name is Gavin Claxton and I have appeared on BBC Television as a fine art expert. I regularly assist collectors with due diligence and the authentication of paintings, and help the living relatives of 19th century artists looking to find out more about their ancestors. In addition, I am always happy to advise clients old and new about collecting, conservation, and framing as well as on the dispersal of paintings they may already own.
"Your gallery is definitely and by far the best I have found. The paintings are so beautiful, you are so nice to deal with and when they arrive they truly need no cleaning and can be hung immediately.”
“Thanks for all your amazing help and guidance. It was a pleasure meeting you. I will always buy with confidence from you. Beautiful painting, speedy safe delivery.”
“It is a pleasure doing business with a gentleman and trusted art adviser. Always perfect in every way. One of the truly great art dealers. Thank you.”
“Gavin was a tremendous help in helping us with our purchase and he alleviated any reservations we had about buying art online. The piece was just as he said, and we are very pleased. Shipping was remarkable... only 4 days!”
“We love the painting and bought with confidence from across the Atlantic based on Gavin’s honesty and expertise.”
“This is my second piece purchased from Academy Fine Paintings. Great communication, shipping, and quality of both pieces. I would highly recommend this fine art dealer."
“Gavin was spectacular throughout the process with timely and professional communication. Packaging and shipping matched the communication. And most importantly, the artwork was accurately portrayed in the pictures and description. I would readily buy another piece of art from Gavin again."
“I had a wonderful buying experience. It was exactly as anticipated and the shipping of this (very large and heavy) painting was flawless and free of charge. Gavin was considerate and thoughtful in keeping me informed of the steps in the process. Overall, just a great transaction. Well done all!”
“Gavin replied to my questions quickly with detailed and useful answers. The piece was very well packaged and arrived as promised. I would highly recommend Academy Fine Paintings and look forward to conducting business again.”
"Our experience, purchase, and shipment was timely and very smooth. The painting is extraordinary and exactly as described."