Theodore Bruce Auctioneers & Valuers

Biography

Theodore Bruce
Company Profile

Founded by the late Theodore Bruce in Adelaide in 1878, Theodore Bruce Auctioneers & Valuers is Australia’s oldest family run auction house. Our trusted and transparent auction house services include regular online auctions in all collecting areas, and a discrete valuation service for fine arts, antiques and rare books.

Our departments include Aboriginal Art, Asian Art, Books, Prints & Ephemera, Collectables, Decorative Arts, Fashion, Fine Art, Fine Wines & Spirits, Furniture, Jewels, Silver & Timepieces, Oceanic & Tribal Art and Single Vendor Collections.

Our Story

Born in Leeds in 1847, Theodore Bruce emigrated to Australia with his family in 1852. In 1878, he set up an auctioneering business in partnership with George Aldridge, the Chairman of the Adelaide Stock Exchange. He opened his first auction rooms in the Old Exchange in Pirie Street in 1889.

Theodore’s son, Frederick Theodore Bruce, joined the family firm in 1911 on the death of his father. He served until 1961 when he was succeeded by his eldest son, Ian Bruce. Today, we’re proud to be chaired by Ian’s son, James Bruce, who for 28 years was also Managing Director.

Our current Directors, James Badgery and Sally Hardy, are also fourth generation auction experts. Their grandfather, Henry Septimus Badgery, worked for livestock auctioneering firms in the mid to late 1800’s, and was considered one of the greatest stock auctioneers of his time.

Henry’s son, Bevan Augustus Badgery, directed a stock auctioneering and station agency at Moss Vale in the NSW Southern Highlands. After working with his father, Bevan Henry (known as Henry), joined James R Lawson Auctioneers in the 1970’s as joint Managing Director and Board Member.

Our Team

James Badgery and Sally Hardy each have close to 40 years’ experience in Australian and international auction houses. Our team also includes specialists in fine art, books, Asian & European decorative arts, collectables, jewellery, silverware & tribal arts.

Our rare books and fine art valuers are registered under the Commonwealth Governments Cultural Gift Program. Our jewellery specialist is a highly qualified gemologist and a Registered Valuer with the National Council of Jewellery Valuers.