An important private collection of Beatrix Potter books, manuscripts, artwork, photographs, figurines and collectables is being offered for sale at Bloomsbury Auctions on February 27.

Put together by collector Mark Ottignon, it is one of the most extensive consignments of Beatrix Potter related material to come up for auction since the 1997 Doris Frohnsdorff sale at Christie's. Many lots are highly scarce but, due to the wide variety of items, it also offers something for enthusiasts on a lower budget as well.

The rarities include A Happy Pair from 1890, the first book illustrated throughout by Beatrix Potter herself. The six chromolithographed illustrations of anthropomorphised rabbits in the book were based on her own pet, Bouncer, and were originally used as card designs that she had sent to Hildesheimer & Faulkner for which she was paid £6 - incidentally the start of her professional career.

Major Beatrix Potter Collection heads to auction.

On April 13th, Bonhams will be holding their Fine Jewelry Sale in London. One of the highlights will be a c. 1900 brooch of a flower with sapphires and diamonds.

Sapphire and Diamond brooch Valued at £30,000-40,000