Christie's to offer The Raglan Collection: Wellington, Waterloo & The Crimea on May 22

KOLKATA: Christie's will offer The Raglan Collection: Wellington, Waterloo & The Crimea at auction on 22 May as part of a two day sale, followed by Works of Art from the Collection of the Marquesses of Londonderry on 23 May.

These two distinguished historical aristocratic families are linked through their prominence in early 19th century British history.

Comprising a total of over 500 lots, this sale presents a cornucopia of rare and unique opportunities which will excite connoisseurs, institutions and enthusiasts around the world. The sale is expected to realise a combined total in the region of £1.5 million.

The Raglan Collection: Wellington, Waterloo & The Crimea is a private collection from Cefntilla Court, Monmouthshire, the ancestral home of the Barons Raglan since 1858. It includes important historical medals, arms and armour, militaria, pictures, furniture, silver, books, Indian weapons and works of art, as well as a selection of enthnographic art.

The collection is being sold by order of the Executors of Fitzroy John Somerset, 5th Baron Raglan (great-great-grandson of the 1st Baron Raglan). The collection comprises over 300 lots and is expected to realise in excess of £750,000.

Amelia Walker, Associate Director, Specialist Head of Collection Sales commented: "FitzRoy Somerset, 1st Baron Raglan, was one of the most well-known British soldiers of the early 19th century. His career spanned service at the right hand of Britain' greatest soldier, the first Duke of Wellington for almost 40 years, during the Peninsular War, at Waterloo, and as Private Secretary, through to his command of British forces in The Crimean War - Raglan's legacy is of foremost importance. This fascinating collection chronicles Lord Raglan's role in some of the most famous battles in British history, as well as featuring more personal items stemming from his relationship with the Iron Duke and the family he created with his wife, Lady Emily Wellesley-Pole, Wellington's favourite niece. The selection on offer was collected by the 1st Baron Raglan as well as by his descendants - almost all military men themselves - including the 3rd Baron Raglan, a politician and governor of the Isle of Man, and the 4th Baron Raglan, an anthropologist and collector."