Antiques Roadshow UK Season 39 Episode 22 Ightham Mote 2

Antiques Roadshow UK Season 39 Episode 22 titled "Ightham Mote 2" takes us on a journey to explore the historical significance of various family heirlooms and treasures that have a deep connection with the country's past. This episode showcases the team's visit to Ightham Mote, a medieval moated manor house in Kent, and the stories of the people who owned or made the items on display.

The show features a diverse range of objects, including a set of superbly crafted table silverware, a watch that belonged to a James Bond stunt double, a pair of rare wooden dolls from the 19th century, and many more. Each piece has a unique history and back-story, and the show's experts offer their insights on the objects' origin, significance and value.

The episode kicks off with an introduction to Ightham Mote, a fascinating house built in the 14th century and owned by the National Trust since 1985. It is a perfect setting for showcasing antiques and providing a peek into the past. Fiona Bruce, the show's host, meets with several owners of the items on display, each keen to understand the origins and significance of their belongings.

One of the standout objects in this episode is a collection of silverware that belonged to a family friend of the last Queen of France, Marie Antoinette. This superbly crafted set showcases the opulence and grandeur of the French royal court. The expert appraiser highlights the intricate details on the pieces, gives insights into the hallmarks and maker's mark, and shares interesting anecdotes about the family friend's relationship with Marie Antoinette.

Another highlight of this episode is a watch that belonged to George Leech, a legendary stunt double who worked on six James Bond films. The watch, which also doubles as a calculator, was a unique possession that reflected the life of a man who risked everything for his craft. Fiona Bruce meets with Leech's daughter, who shares her father's adventurous life and his short-lived interaction with James Bond himself.

The show also features a pair of wooden dolls from the 19th century made by one of the best-known makers of the time, Robert Pettigrew. These dolls are rare and unique in their form and have a distinct personality. The expert looks at the dolls' clothes, eyes, hair, and general condition to determine their age and value, and shares interesting insights into the maker's life and inspiration.

In addition to these highlights, the show provides a detailed analysis of various other objects, including a miniature painting, a collection of rare knives, a carved ivory tusk, and a pair of antique pistols. The experts examine these objects with great attention to detail, providing fascinating insights into their history and origin and offering estimates of their value.

The episode closes with Fiona Bruce summarizing the highlights of the show and reflecting on the cultural and historical significance of the objects. Overall, Antiques Roadshow UK Season 39, Episode 22, titled "Ightham Mote 2" is a fascinating and insightful exploration of heritage and culture. Through the lens of antiques and personal heirlooms, this episode takes us on a voyage of discovery, showcasing the importance of preserving the past to enrich our present and future.