5 Garden Treasures to Fall in Love with This Summer – From Goblins to Croquet
With summer finally making a fashionably late appearance (we were beginning to worry), our gardens are calling for attention, a spritz of style, and perhaps something a little unexpected. Just in time, Bellmans’ June Interiors Auctions are fast approaching, and with them comes a chance to give your garden a glow-up with a little help from history, sculpture, and a dash of whimsy.
We’ve selected five fabulous lots guaranteed to add charm, curiosity, and classical flair to your outdoor space. Whether you’re hosting garden parties, pondering life from a bench, or waging war with mallets and hoops, these picks might just make your summer.
Lot 685 – David Goode’s Bronze Goblin Fountain: For Those Who Believe in Garden Magic
First up, and perhaps the cheekiest of the bunch, is this mischievous bronze goblin fountain by acclaimed sculptor David Goode. Perched impishly above a cauldron and titled “To Isabel” (a sweet nod to the artist’s daughter), this piece is part of Goode’s Goblin Series—an imaginative continuation of his earlier work Snailmaker, famously unveiled at the 1995 Chelsea Flower Show.
Formerly the youngest portrait sculptor at Madame Tussaud’s, Goode brings both technical finesse and fairy tale flair to his work. If your garden is in need of a magical centrepiece (or a well-behaved goblin), this is the lot for you.
Top tip: pair with creeping ivy and a shady nook and some fairy lights of course, for maximum storytelling effect.
Lot 696 – Jaques & Son Prize Medal Croquet Set: Game, Set & Victorian Match
Few things say “British summer” quite like the sound of mallets knocking balls across a perfectly mown lawn. Lot 696 brings not just nostalgia, but serious pedigree. Dating from circa 1860–1880, this rare Jaques & Son croquet set features its original box (labelled ‘Prize Medal’), eight mallets, hoops, balls, and even those elusive gilt clips embossed ‘Jaques PATENT’.
Founded in 1795, Jaques & Son introduced croquet to the world stage at the Great Exhibition of 1851 and won two gold medals for it. With ties to Sir John Tenniel, illustrator of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, this set might just be tea-party approved by the Queen of Hearts herself.
Ideal for competitive types, Victorian enthusiasts, and lovers of lawn games with a backstory.
Alongside this Victorian Croquet Set, we have a modern, bespoke set consigned by a member of the Jaques family who commissioned this set as a one off. If the name Jaques rings a bell, well you’re right, this is the Jaques family widely credited with being instrumental in the invention and popularisation of Croquet!
Lot 690 – English Lead Figure of a Putto or Bacchante: Classical Cool Meets Summer Spirit
For the garden that likes a little mythology with its morning dew, Lot 690 delivers in spades. This lead figure, possibly representing a Bacchante (a follower of Bacchus, god of wine), or even a personification of summer itself, brings a timeless grace to flower beds and fountains alike.
Likely produced by John Parish White, the legendary sculptor behind Bedford’s Pyghtle Works, this early 20th century piece blends classical inspiration with English craftsmanship. Lead sculpture was all the rage at the time, and with good reason, it’s durable, elegant, and naturally resists the elements.
Best admired with a glass of something fruity in hand.
Lot 1125 – Regency Style Strap Iron Garden Bench: Sit Back in Gothic Elegance
What’s a garden without a bench to pause, reflect, and sip lemonade? Enter Lot 1125, a gorgeous strap iron bench in a Gothic Revival style. With pointed arches and a Regency flair, this green-painted beauty is more than just functional, it’s practically architectural.
Reflecting the 19th century’s growing passion for garden ornamentation, this piece strikes a balance between sturdiness and aesthetic appeal. Place it under a tree or beside your goblin fountain and prepare to become the local lord or lady of leisure.
May cause spontaneous picnicking.
Lot 1140 – A Pair of 19th-Century Cast Iron Garden Urns: Understated Grandeur
Rounding out our top five is Lot 1140, a pair of late 19th century cast iron garden urns. Their classical simplicity makes them the ideal companions for topiary, ferns, or even your most dramatic summer blooms.
Their black painted finish ensures they’ll blend in effortlessly with any garden design from formal to wild, and their solid construction means they’ll withstand even the moodiest British weather.
Because every garden needs a little gravitas.
Let the Summer Styling Begin…
Whether you’re redecorating the grounds of your country estate (one can dream), reviving your townhouse patio, or just in search of a goblin with a good backstory, Bellmans’ June Interiors Auctions offer plenty of inspiration.
So polish off the croquet balls, clear a spot for your new Bacchante, and take a seat on your soon-to-be Regency bench, your garden is about to become a lot more interesting.
Auction Dates: Tuesday 24 June
Sussex & Online | Bidding Available Soon
Garden glory awaits and it’s only a bid away.
