The British are famous for their love of tea. So much so that it’s difficult to imagine a visit to a British household without the customary “do you fancy a cuppa?” But tea has not always been so associated with life in Britain. The early popularity of tea drinking in Britain can be attributed, at least in part, to Charles II and his Portuguese wife, Catherine of Braganza. Upon her arrival in England in 1662, Catherine was reportedly unimpressed by the ale presented to her by her hosts, and she gradually popularised the trend of tea drinking in the royal court. In the 356 years that have passed since, the popularity of tea has soared. In fact, the British now reportedly drink over 60 billion cups every year! With such a prominent place in the hearts of society both at home and overseas, it is no surprise that the trend of tea drinking has motivated the production of tea services fit for a Queen. The craze for tea has been showcased at auction recently, with tea services and accoutrements featuring as standout pieces at McTear’s since the start of 2018. Beautiful pieces, from Art Deco tea services to ornate Asian teapots, and everything in between, have been offered for auction at McTear’s.

Whilst scouring the country looking for different and interesting bottles, the Whisky Department recently discovered an incredible cache of almost 500 bottles in the south of England. Within this collection was a wealth of Springbanks, Ardbegs, Highland Parks and Macallans. Not to mention a wide range of vintage Glenmorangies, and curious wine finishes. Whilst the Macallan 18 and 25-year-olds may take grab the headlines, there were also a number of collectable and drinkable whiskies from lower profile distilleries such as the Isle of Arran Distillery.

💥🎉 🇬🇧 🥇🥈🥉 The Opening Ceremony is underway and we want to wish all of Team GB (and everyone else) competing in the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games a massive good luck! 🏒⛸🥌🛷🎿⛷

The nineteenth century saw the enigma of Mary, Queen of Scots explored through story, song and image with many contrasting representations. From an ambitious and scheming absolutist, a murderous adulterer to a tragic, beautiful victim, the myth of Mary was irresistible to artists, and next month we’re delighted to offer for sale John Callcott Horsley’s (1817 – 1903) outstanding Mary Queen of Scots in Captivity (lot 250).

Antique lovers can benefit from the expert eye of a top TV auctioneer while raising money for the Beatson Cancer charity. McTear’s Auctioneers is holding a valuation day at its Glasgow base with Bargain Hunt presenter Natasha Raskin-Sharp on hand to spot any hidden treasures. Specialists in jewellery, silver, ceramics, art, furniture, clocks, instruments, watches, coins, whisky and more will be available on the day to cast their eyes over items brought in by members of the public. The event, which will run on Thursday, 22 February from 10am to 3pm at McTear's, will see Natasha join the McTear’s team hoping to unearth a gem or two.

Currently active and ending on 8 February, McTear’s have an online malt whisky auction which has the drinker and casual collector in mind.

Lot 1467 in the Feb 24th whisky auction at McTear's is Bruichladdich 1992 'Final Act of Creation'. The final bottling from Jim McEwan, and taken from his mythical Chateau Latour cask dubbed 'Princess Diana'. One of only 220 bottles, signed by the man himself and valued at £800-1200.

Just a regular day at work

Back at the auction. Furniture today, art on Sunday. Fascinating place. #auctionhouse #auction #glasgow #art

Spending time at the auction house. #whisky #japanesewhisky #hibiki #glasgow #auction #auctionhouse #malt #blend

My favourite quote on the front is "All who take Whisky and value their health should use it".

So this finally arrived today. A snip at £10-12k! #whisky #macallan #auction #luxury #1950

Ardbeg Double Barrel - you can tell a whisky's lush when it comes with white gloves! Auction estimate £7000-8000, get your bids in before October 19th!

Being serious auctioneers with my dad and uncle 😂

Yes please.

Always a good day at work when one of these £4k beauties comes in...

#soldatmctearsauction #scary #whitecat #auction #mctears

#lunch #mctears #amazing #yummyfood #auction #loveit

#auction #gun #hateguns #thisismyman #wtf #dontpointthatatme

#latte #sconebutterjam #mctears #auctioneers ☕️