Richard Bagnall-Smith

Spear’s Review

Richard Bagnall-Smith’s aim in establishing Cadell was to create an alternative art advisory model. The firm focuses on private clients — often working on behalf of HNWs and UHNWs – who recognise the value of independent, professional-grade advice without conflicts of interest. The firm is FCA-regulated, a rarity in the art world, and has built a loyal client base of lawyers, trustees, family offices and private banks.

‘Transparency and a structured process might not seem synonymous with the art world, but it’s a big part of what we offer at Cadell,’ says Bagnall-Smith. ‘Our approach is designed to expand the number of options and reveal the best one for our clients.’

Adviser Profile

‘In a sector like art, where few lawyers or trustees have in-depth experience, the ability to deliver professional-grade insights is a great way to build confidence and trust,’ says Richard Bagnall-Smith, summarising the philosophy of the firm which he co-founded.

Both Bagnall-Smith and his co-founder were inspired to set up Cadell after realising how much the rapidly expanding art market still relied on the work of a small number of ‘trusted advisers’ with an effective monopoly over the market.

‘The art market still remained an exclusive club, with access driven by key individuals – some of whom operated on the principle that influencing a collector’s decision could yield significant returns for them,’ he says.