McTear’s owner, auctioneer and managing director, Brian, joined the company in 1987 after two years apprenticeship in a small auction concern in his home town Greenock. Working through the roles of auction clerk, assistant, junior valuer and saleroom manager, he became a director in 2003 and soon after managing director. Brian is married to Alison, fellow director of the company, they have three children, Kerr, Briony and Connor. In his spare time, Brian is known to enjoy the occasional glass of red wine. He plays the very occasional game of golf and watches his football team Greenock Morton record the very occasional win!
Hamish was born in Crawley, Sussex in 1974 and grew up in Hampshire and Sussex, attending Farleigh School and Worth Abbey. Upon leaving school he was a professional yachtsman, working on classic sailing yachts and square riggers. Between 1996-1999 Hamish studied at Southampton Institute where he graduated with a Fine Arts Valuation degree and became a Junior Under Officer in Southampton University Officers Training Corps. With his degree, he went to work for Gorringes in Lewes and then Dreweatts. In 2006, Hamish moved to Scotland and worked at Shapes in Edinburgh before beginning with McTear`s in May 2011 as Auctioneer and Valuer.
Magda was born in Glasgow in 1985 and went to Fernhill School in Rutherglen. She studied for a degree in History of Art at Glasgow University and went on to complete a Master`s in The History of Collecting and Collections. Magda focuses on Chinese and Japanese works of art, and having spent time living and studying in Tokyo and Paris she has been able to develop her language skills and understanding of these rich artistic heritages. She has also worked with Contemporary Art, especially paintings. Beginning with McTear’s as a part-time summer worker, she has been with the company since 2004. Magda enjoys her roles as Auctioneer and Valuer, and as Executries Manager, which allow her to handle all kinds of objects and meet many interesting people.
Christina was born in Tokyo and moved to Canada as a child. She attended Concordia University, where she completed a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts, specialising in Painting and Drawing. After completing her BFA, Christina moved to Vancouver and began post-graduate coursework in contemporary art at the University of British Columbia. Christina continued her involvement in the arts as a Collections and Curatorial Assistant at both Il Museo (ICC) and The North Vancouver Museum and Archive. In 2010, Christina began an MLITT degree in Decorative Arts and Design History at Glasgow University, funded by both the NAJC and BC Arts Council.
Stephen was born in 1966 and educated at Napier University and the University of Nottingham. His interest in whisky and wine led him to work in the retail sector of the industry, where his knowledge (and appreciation) of fine tipples blossomed. Stephen joined McTear`s in 2010 as Whisky and Wine Specialist, and heads up a busy department which holds spirited sales every five weeks. His interests include enjoying fine food and wine, hill walking, and – most of all – spending time with his wife and daughter.
Victoria Irvine
Natasha was born in Glasgow in 1986, and studied History of Art and French at university. New to the auction environment, she is gaining experience and knowledge in her role as Gallery Manager. Contemporary Scottish works of art are her main interest and it’s a good thing too; she usually has about 300 such lots to hang on the picture rails each month! Stints on the jewellery counter have taught Natasha more about diamonds and gems than she ever thought possible in only a matter of months. Natasha will soon be coordinating our exciting new internship programme at McTear’s. If you’re interested in learning more about this, contact her directly at Natasha@mctears.co.uk.
Sarah was born and raised in Jordanhill, Glasgow. As a child, Sarah was taken around antique shops and fairs by her parents who are keen collectors and in time she became very interested in antiques. Wanting to turn her passion for jewellery into a career, Sarah studied History of Art at Glasgow University, going on to pursue an M.Litt in Decorative Arts and Design History. Undertaking an MSc in Museum Studies, she furthered her knowledge of jewellery and specifically the history how we use and interact with such objects. In 2011, Sarah joined McTear’s as head of the Jewellery Department, a role she delights in. She is currently studying for her FGA in gemmology which will allow her to match a scientific knowledge of gems with her historical jewellery knowledge.
James Milloy
James, McTear's Head Porter, was born in Glasgow in 1984. After leaving Bellarmine Secondary School in Pollok in 1999, Jamie started work at sixteen as a labourer in a furniture factory and then became a security guard for Mitie, before gaining his current position at McTear’s. Since joining the team in February 2011, he has gained a vast amount of knowledge in a short space of time. From Carltonware to Clarice Cliff, Jamie can spot a hidden gem from fifty paces. Four children and a serious obsession with fishing keep his hands full in his spare time. In charge of the bustling Friday sales, Jamie shoulders a serious responsibility with a professional and polite manner and is much loved by the sale room regulars.
