What happened to Henry Sandon?

Renowned Antiques Roadshow expert Henry Sandon has passed away at the age of 95, as officially confirmed.

Henry, widely acknowledged as the foremost authority on Worcester Porcelain, made his inaugural appearance on the show in 1979 and remained an iconic figure until his demise on Christmas Day. His son, John, shared the news, confirming that Henry peacefully passed away at a care home in Malvern, Worcestershire.

Before captivating audiences on the Antiques Roadshow, Henry Sandon held the prestigious position of curator at the Dyson Perrins Museum, now known as the Worcester Porcelain Museum, located at the Royal Worcester Factory, until the early 1980s.

In a heartfelt statement, John expressed, “My dad died peacefully on Christmas morning. Simply old age, as he was 95, and he’s left the world of antiques with an incredible legacy.” John fondly reminisced about his father’s interactions on the Antiques Roadshow, where Henry’s infectious enthusiasm and warm smile brought even the most humble items to life. John added, “Dad taught me to see the human side of a piece of pottery, and I could have asked for no greater gift.”

Henry Sandon, an esteemed authority on Royal Worcester porcelain, authored several books on the subject, contributing significantly to the field. The Museum of Royal Worcester paid tribute to Sandon, acknowledging the immense loss and noting that he will be “sorely missed.”

Henry Sandon’s career was marked by numerous accolades, and he received an MBE in 2008 for his exceptional contributions to broadcasting, the ceramics industry, and charity. His enduring legacy, both in the world of antiques and beyond, is a testament to his passion, expertise, and warm-hearted approach to the treasures he encountered throughout his illustrious career.