Adams Blackrock has been a cornerstone of Ireland’s fine art and antiques auctioneering scene for decades. The business, originally known as Thomas P. Adams & Co, was founded in the 1940s by Thomas Adams. Over the years, it has evolved into a well-respected auction house, offering expert valuations and handling prestigious sales of fine art, furniture, silver, and collectibles.
The Early Years: From Shankill to Blackrock
Thomas Adams first established his auction house in Shankill, Co. Wicklow, but in 1947, he relocated to Main Street, Blackrock, in south Co. Dublin. This move positioned the business within a bustling and affluent community, helping it grow in reputation. Adams Blackrock became known for its Fine Art & Interiors Auctions, which typically featured antique furniture, paintings, silverware, and decorative arts.
The Noonan-Greene Era: Expansion and Growth
In 1986, the business changed hands when Martina Noonan and Bryan Greene acquired it from Paddy Dunfoy, who had taken over from the founder, Thomas Adams. Both Noonan and Greene had extensive experience in the auction world, having worked for Christie’s and other prestigious art institutions.
Under their ownership, Adams Blackrock expanded its operations, holding six to eight Fine Art & Interiors Auctions per year. The auction house became a go-to destination for collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts seeking rare and valuable items.
A New Chapter: Adams Blackrock Today
Recently, Adams Blackrock has entered a new phase of ownership and specialization. The auction house has relocated to 17 Kildare Street, Dublin 2, a prestigious address in the heart of the city, known for its association with Irish politics, culture, and heritage.
With this move, the business has shifted focus to monthly jewellery-only auctions, catering to a growing demand for fine jewellery. This new direction reflects the evolving interests of collectors and investors while maintaining the high standards and reputation that Adams Blackrock has upheld for decades.
The Legacy Continues
From its humble beginnings in Shankill to its esteemed presence on Kildare Street, Adams Blackrock has continually adapted to the changing art and antiques market while staying true to its core values of expertise, integrity, and passion for fine art. Whether through historic furniture, exquisite silver, or now fine jewellery, the auction house remains a key player in Ireland’s rich auctioneering tradition.
The Early Years: From Shankill to Blackrock
Thomas Adams first established his auction house in Shankill, Co. Wicklow, but in 1947, he relocated to Main Street, Blackrock, in south Co. Dublin. This move positioned the business within a bustling and affluent community, helping it grow in reputation. Adams Blackrock became known for its Fine Art & Interiors Auctions, which typically featured antique furniture, paintings, silverware, and decorative arts.
The Noonan-Greene Era: Expansion and Growth
In 1986, the business changed hands when Martina Noonan and Bryan Greene acquired it from Paddy Dunfoy, who had taken over from the founder, Thomas Adams. Both Noonan and Greene had extensive experience in the auction world, having worked for Christie’s and other prestigious art institutions.
Under their ownership, Adams Blackrock expanded its operations, holding six to eight Fine Art & Interiors Auctions per year. The auction house became a go-to destination for collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts seeking rare and valuable items.
A New Chapter: Adams Blackrock Today
Recently, Adams Blackrock has entered a new phase of ownership and specialization. The auction house has relocated to 17 Kildare Street, Dublin 2, a prestigious address in the heart of the city, known for its association with Irish politics, culture, and heritage.
With this move, the business has shifted focus to monthly jewellery-only auctions, catering to a growing demand for fine jewellery. This new direction reflects the evolving interests of collectors and investors while maintaining the high standards and reputation that Adams Blackrock has upheld for decades.
The Legacy Continues
From its humble beginnings in Shankill to its esteemed presence on Kildare Street, Adams Blackrock has continually adapted to the changing art and antiques market while staying true to its core values of expertise, integrity, and passion for fine art. Whether through historic furniture, exquisite silver, or now fine jewellery, the auction house remains a key player in Ireland’s rich auctioneering tradition.
