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