Christophe Payne, Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries, July 2026 : "I met Florence by chance just under two years ago whilst in conversation with her husband. The conversation developed quickly as he explained that his wife Florence was working in the world of antiques. After many years as a recognised face in antiques I have become increasingly interested in conservation - Conservation in it’s modern form with a capital “C", i.e. not restoration but a scientific approach to sympathetic work to maintain the integrity of the object but render it serviceable; an item ready to hand down to the next generation. Meeting Florence I was immediately struck by her understanding of this ethos and her enthusiasm to continue to learn the necessary skills. My first conversation with her was on aspects of upholstery and the techniques needed to preserve existing components as far as possible. As a young boy I watched the cabinetmakers in my grandfather’s and father’s workshops and was able to learn enough for a lifetime of curiosity about wood and its use. The family firm's upholstery workshop was a mysterious fascination, from the simplicity of a magnetised hammer to spit out sharp ‘Bayonet’ tacks, to the complexity of cutting expensive materials without waste. It is my opinion that Florence has a complete understanding of the skills and techniques needed across the field of paint surfaces, upholstery and woodwork and she is dedicated to bringing her skills to an even higher level. In our many subsequent meetings she has enthusiastically shown me how hard she is working, her diligence and perseverance winning her the confidence of her clients."