Under the hammer

A pair of 19th-century Chinese mahjong chairs is among the offerings under the hammer.

Freeman's previous experience with The Georgian Dealer's 19th- and 20th-century art and antiques led him to believe that auction was the way to go.

"If you buy something in an antique store, you get the accumulated knowledge of someone who will guide you," he says. "In an auction house, things change 100-percent weekly and you can see a large volume of goods. The prices are more wholesale instead of retail. And it is a great way to meet people in an exciting environment."

With help from interior designer Debra Little, Freeman transformed a 550-square-meter warehouse space in the south of Hong Kong into a warm and inviting showroom.

"The most important thing about the space is that it is flexible," Freeman says. "We can do anything with it. We are planning charity auctions and other events. It shows off new and old things well."

Named after Sir Thomas Gresham, the 16th-century founder of The Royal Exchange and Gresham's College in London as well as Freeman's ancestor, Gresham's intends to sell anything and everything.

Its next auction will specialize in the arts of China and Asia. There will be silver boxes and bowls, furnishings such as low tables and Chinese chairs, porcelain and enamel.

Eventually, when the house gets up to speed, Freeman hopes to include fine wine, watches and vintage cars.

People who are interested in bidding can personally check out the selection available during previews and on the day of the auction. There are typically 200 to 300 items up on the block. Offers are accepted in person, or via absentee, phone and eventually online bids. Freeman personally presides over each auction: "I am the guy with gavel!"

"We are targeting mostly local buyers or tourists who are in Hong Kong, although of course anyone can bid over the phone or online," Freeman says.