Contemporary & Historic Issues in the Art Market No.6 - 'The Waverley Criteria' - is it fit for purpose?

After a long break, the Contemporary & Historic Issues in the Art Market series returns with a hybrid event.

Recent reports in the Antiques Trade Gazette (10 October 2026 and 17 October 2026) have ignited a debate about the 'fitness for purpose' of the 'Waverley Criteria' (1952), which are used in the work of the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest (RCEWA).

The sixth in our informal occasional research seminars focused on Contemporary & Historic Issues in the Art Market, this discussion-based seminar explores the complex issues of how, and in what circumstances, objects should be 'Saved for the Nation'.

Taking place in an Open Discussion format, this event takes place in person and online. All are welcome.

To help the debate along, we will post some resources here a few days before the start of the discussion, if you would like to read, digest and bring your reflections to the discussion.

This event is organised by the Centre for the Study of the Art and Antiques Market at the University of Leeds.

Venue

In person:

Room 1.02
Clarendon Building
University of Leeds
Leeds LS2 9JT

Directions to the venue.

Online:

It is also possible to attend via Teams.

Please email Mark Westgarth at antiquedealers@leeds.ac.uk for a link.

Image

The Warwick Cabinet, c.1775. Export Stop in 1979.  Photograph: Year of the Dealer Project and The Bowes Museum 2024.