Fine Arts

Dynamic duo furnish a connection with the past

English conservator Rupert McBain and Kilkenny antiques consultant Philip Byrne have teamed up once more to bring rare furniture of incredible craftsmanship to auction

William Moore demi-lune, c1785: a star lot in Timeless, the Irish Antique Dealers’ Fair at the RDS in Dublin, September 23-25. Picture: Monty Rakusan

Sometimes in life, the most inconsequential things end up sparking relationships lasting a lifetime.

When English furniture maker and conservator Rupert McBain received a letter from Kilkenny-based antiques consultant Philip Byrne, seeking pieces for a client, neither could have known it would spark a successful partnership, cemented by their mutual love of furniture.

More than a decade later, their latest collaboration will see them showcase their diverse collection at Timeless, the Irish Antique Dealers’ Fair, ...