At Brave Fine Art, we track down attractive European artworks and discover the hidden stories behind their creation. When you browse our directory, you'll find artists from Denmark, France, Holland, Belgium, Germany, the UK and beyond.

Over the years, we've sold thousands of paintings to clients all over the world including well-known country estates, national museums and leading industry figures.

You're in good company.

Emotional Connection

We look for paintings that grab hold of you - the ones that are worth keeping for years. The most engaging artworks provide depth and a sense of something more. And often that’s enhanced when you learn more about their story.

Motivation

We’re passionate about history and enjoy sharing our discoveries. Each sale funds our research and gives us the time to explore the archives. We’re not in it for the money and try to price everything fairly. Our aim is to grow our research team and increase the scope of our work.

Interesting Discoveries

Many of the artists in our directory were lost to time, even those that exhibited at prestigious venues, such as the Royal Academy. We’ve explored hundreds of records, in print and online, to uncover who these people really were.

For example, we acquired a charming portrait without an attribution that had an incorrect label on the reverse. But when we examined the piece closely, we found a small signature that led us to Derbyshire artist Joseph Thraves who was relatively unknown. Via our research, we discovered his dates, family records and press clippings.

We’ve also uncovered the story of Christine Hansen, a Lancashire artist who exhibited at the Royal Scottish Academy but appeared to drop off the map entirely. By searching the archives, we traced her to Colwyn Bay, Wales, where she spent many years depicting the rugged coastal scenery in an impressionistic style.

There are so many accomplished artists that deserve recognition for their creative endeavours.

Who Are We?

Andy Shield (Director)
Holly Batley (Buyer & Conservation)
Paul Badger (Logistics)
Polly Pyke (Art History Writer)
Ian Vaughan (Driver & Administration)

Where Are We?

Cheltenham Spa in the Cotswolds. If you’ve not been before, it’s well worth a day trip for its Regency architecture, shopping and restaurants.

Do feel free to contact us as we’re always happy to share further information.

Why Buy From Brave?

Each piece is assessed by a conservation specialist
Our team includes a specialist with a degree in conservation so you can be assured that your artwork will arrive in good condition.
Our attributions are solid
We've handled thousands of works and we're careful with attributions. We have a policy of only upgrading an attribution when we're 100% sure it's right. In fact, we've often downgraded attributions when we feel an auction house or seller got it wrong.
We sell through the leading auction houses
We've sold oil paintings worth up to £360,000 through the major auction houses including Sotheby's and maintain a good relationship with them.
We work with national museums
Aside from our domestic clients, we're proud to also work with national museums.
We're popular with the press
You may have seen some of our paintings in popular magazines including Vogue, Homes & Antiques, Homes & Gardens, and Living etc. We never pay for coverage.
We're a source of inspiration for interior designers
The interiors trade often buy from us particularly in the USA.
We've received hundreds of five star reviews
Over the years, we've received hundreds of five star reviews from clients all over the world.
We're obsessed with shipping
We take our role as custodians very seriously and pack all artwork with care and consideration. Many of the paintings are transported overseas.
We only buy what we believe in
We only buy the special pieces that we would proudly hang in our own home. The captivating and decoratively appealing pieces that give you so much more over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is shipping?
Worldwide express shipping is free. Artworks are generally sent via DHL or delivered by hand and all customs paperwork is taken care of for international deliveries.
How are paintings packed?
We wrap paintings very carefully using a combination of materials, which are predominantly sustainable. Boxes are made from sturdy card and are often telescopic. Custom made boxes are used for larger paintings and we use crates for some deliveries overseas.
Where are the paintings sourced?
We buy from auction houses and private collectors throughout Europe.
Can I arrange a viewing?
Yes, we would be happy to arrange a viewing at our unit in Cheltenham. Please contact us in advance.

A Selection Of Reviews

“Gorgeous picture and seriously the fastest customer service available, regardless of time zone.”

“The painting was expertly photographed and described, and did not disappoint when it arrived. This painting is wonderful! Andy had excellent communication both before and after the sale. The packaging was careful and shipping, even overseas, very fast. Could not have been a better transaction!”

“Painting is beautiful. A true treasure. The shipping was unbelievable! It was professionally packed and shipped within a few days! That is unheard of considering it came from the UK. Very impressed with the quick response from Andy. Definitely will be placing this exquisite shop in my very favourites list! Thank you!”

“Beautiful. Soulful and Rare. Absolutely wonderful treasure! Andy is by far, the kindest person to work with. Always a joyful experience in every aspect. A thousand stars for this amazing shop.”

Research Your Painting

Are you looking to discover more information about your antique or vintage painting? If so, our team can help. Contact us to find out more.

Stay In Touch
Subscribe to our Wednesday newsletter for the latest finds and 10% off your first order.

Availability