Welcome to Bennett & Dykes Ltd

Jonathan Bennett has been in the antiques trade for many years, and specialises in Chinese porcelain and works of art from the Ming and the Qing dynasties. He started as a member of the Chinese Department at Sotheby’s in 1979, and was there for five years before leaving to become an independent dealer, based at first in the north of England and more recently in London. Since 2013 he has been trading at the Kensington Antiques Centre in Kensington Church Street.

Stephen is a jewellery specialist with over 40 years experience in the auction sector. He started his career in 1981 working for the Crown Jeweller at Garrard and Co., 112 Regent Street. In 1987 he joined Bonhams auctioneers, where he was Director of Jewellery for 10 years, after which he became European Director of Phillips Auctions, responsible for auctions in London and Geneva. He is now a freelance specialist and consultant valuer and auctioneer.

Exposed with archaeology from an early age in Lima, Peru where he grew up very close to gigantic Huacas or mud brick pyramids, Mr. Juan Carlos Bahamonde was always fascinated with such structures that he would visit them every time he could. In 1995, he moved to the U.K to study at the University of Manchester, in 1998 he obtained his Bachelor degree Geography and Archaeology with emphasis in Mesopotamian Archaeology and Roman Britain. During his studies, he completed various field excavations including Celtic deposits in peat bogs in Roscommon in Ireland and archaeological surveys in Roman settlements in Skermemdale in the N.W of Britain. 

His main core of knowledge is Peruvian and Mesoamerican ancient art and history, Mesopotamian, Persian and Chinese archaeology and history, his interests span ancient civilisations including China, India and Japan. He is very knowledgable in ethnographic art from around the world. Whenever he can he will find time to enhance his passion for ancient history by studying books, documentaries and museum visits.

 Joseph Cohen is an esteemed authority in the field of European Silver and Works of Art, boasting a long-standing reputation for his expertise and contributions. His passion for silver extends beyond Europe to encompass Asia, India, and the Orient, where he has cultivated a particular interest and deep understanding. With extensive experience and keen insights, Joseph Cohen not only excels in European silver, but also possesses a profound knowledge of silver from diverse cultural backgrounds.