Auction: The Giles Sim Collection - Part I, 18th Oct, 2024

Giles Sim’s life has been deeply intertwined with the rhythms of the countryside and the wonders of the natural world. From a young age, he was drawn to the outdoors, cultivating a profound love for hunting, horse racing, and, most notably, birdwatching. This passion for avian life sparked a remarkable journey over 25 years ago, when he began to collect taxidermy birds—a hobby that quickly grew into an obsession.

Giles set out with a clear and simple rule: to collect only those birds he had personally observed in the wild. This led him on countless expeditions across the globe, from the sunlit plains of Spain to the dense forests of Romania and from the lush rainforests of Costa Rica to the vibrant shores of Tobago. Eventually, his zeal extended beyond the limits of his initial rule, and he began to acquire birds from even the most far-flung corners of the world, whether or not he had the opportunity to see them in person. His collection became a testament to the diversity and beauty of birdlife across the globe, encompassing species from every continent.

Giles’ beloved and long-suffering wife, Penny, who has sadly passed away, took on the meticulous task of cataloguing each bird, ensuring that each was properly documented and preserved.  The collection stands as a tribute not only to the wonders of nature but also to an adventurous life well lived. Now, as some of these birds come to auction, it offers a rare opportunity for others to own a piece of this extraordinary collection.

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 Thursday 17th October 10am-5pm and the morning of the sale from 8am

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