Two well-known experts on Antiques Roadshow, Henry and John Sandon, share more than just a surname. Here's what you need to know about their family connection.
Are John and Henry Sandon on Antiques Roadshow related?
Yes, John and Henry Sandon are indeed related. Henry, who sadly passed away on Christmas Day 2023, was John's father. He passed on his love and extensive knowledge of antiques to his son. John confirmed that Henry died peacefully at a care home in Malvern, Worcestershire, on Christmas morning. At the time of his passing, Henry was 95 years old, while his son John is 64.
John spoke fondly of his father, saying, "To the millions who tuned in every Sunday evening to watch The Antiques Roadshow, Henry was like a favourite uncle. His enthusiasm for even the humblest piece of chipped china was infectious. His joy when he discovered a rare Staffordshire pottery owl jug, nicknamed 'Ozzie', was a magic TV moment few will forget."
Who is Henry Sandon?
Henry Sandon, born on August 10, 1928, was a former presenter and antiques expert on Antiques Roadshow. He attended the Royal Grammar School in High Wycombe and was evacuated to Buckinghamshire during the Second World War. From an early age, Henry developed a passion for archaeology, particularly pottery and porcelain. He served as the curator of the Dyson Perrins Museum at the Royal Worcester Factory from 1966 to 1982. During his time on Antiques Roadshow, Henry became a highly respected figure in the antiques industry. In recognition of his contributions, a hall at the Worcester Royal Porcelain Museum was named after him. He was voted Antiques Personality of the Year in 2000 and received an MBE in 2008 for his services to the ceramics industry.
Who is John Sandon?
John Sandon is one of Henry's three sons and also an expert on Antiques Roadshow. Following in his father's footsteps, John began his career in the world of antiques at Bonhams auction house in London at the age of 16. Over the years, he rose to become the International Director of European Ceramics and Glass at the auction house. John has written thirteen books on various topics related to porcelain, including guides on Collecting Worcester Porcelain, British Porcelain and Meissen, and his Dictionary of Worcester Porcelain. He has also made contributions to well-known antiques publications such as BBC Homes and Antiques and the popular Millers Antiques Price Guides. Apart from his professional pursuits, John is an avid collector himself and has a particular interest in Roman antiquities. He also enjoys painting and decorating porcelain. Despite being diagnosed with heart failure in 2009, John was able to return to Antiques Roadshow after receiving a pacemaker.
