Charles Russell Speechlys advises Gurr Johns on its acquisition of Forum Auctions Limited

Charles Russell Speechlys has advised the international art advisory group, Gurr Johns, on its acquisition of auctioneers, Forum Auctions Limited.

Gurr Johns is one of the leading international, independent art advisory and appraisal firms working with private and institutional clients on the acquisition, sale, maintenance and valuation of fine and decorative art, collectables and jewellery.

Founded in 2016 by Stephan Ludwig, Forum Auctions is an auction house specialising in Antiquarian Books and Manuscripts, 20th Century Literature, Modern and Contemporary Art and Editions, Old Master Prints and Drawings, Photographs and other Works on Paper.

Forum will be added to Gurr Johns’ recently established division dedicated to auctions. Stephan Ludwig will assume responsibility for the auctions division and will also serve as Co-Chief Executive Officer of the enlarged Gurr Johns group alongside current Gurr Johns CEO, Ben Clark, who will continue to oversee the group’s global art advisory businesses.

Ben Clark, Gurr Johns Co-CEO, commented: “We were brilliantly advised on this successful acquisition by James Broadhurst and the team at Charles Russell Speechlys; the team listened to our objectives, was highly responsive and manifestly values us as a client.”

Corporate partner James Broadhurst commented: “We were delighted to advise Gurr Johns on this complex transaction and wish the enlarged group every success. We look forward to working with the group very soon.”

The team was led by James Broadhurst supported by Tom Smitham, Grace Hudson, Ayman Shehata, Iwan Thomas, Sam Lawn, Jess Dawkins (Corporate) and Rudy Capildeo (Art). The wider team also included Martin Fisher, Eddie Richards (Real Estate), Chris Haywood (Commercial), Rachel Hearn (Employment), Helen Coward, Anna Reynolds and Orrie Hamilton (Corporate Tax).