Renowned antiques expert Judith Miller has passed away at the age of 71, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy in the world of antiques and collectibles. Miller was a household name and a familiar face to millions of viewers as a regular contributor to the popular BBC show, Antiques Roadshow. With her extensive knowledge and infectious enthusiasm, she helped to demystify the often complex world of antique collecting and inspired a new generation of enthusiasts to discover the joys of the past. Her passing marks the end of a remarkable career, as well as a loss to the world of antiques and those who loved her.
Judith Miller, the beloved writer and antiques expert who appeared on BBC One’s Antiques Roadshow, has passed away at the age of 71. Her publisher, Mitchell Beazley, announced that Miller died “over the weekend after a short illness.” Her notable career was punctuated by a profound expertise in antiques and her generosity in sharing her knowledge with the public.
Miller was a prolific author, co-founding the international bestseller Miller’s Antiques Price Guide with her first husband, Martin Miller, in 1979. She was renowned for her ability to spot valuable items and was frequently featured on the Antiques Roadshow. One of her most significant discoveries on the show came when she identified a set of Art Deco posters designed by French painter Jean Dupas, found in Stanway House, Gloucestershire, in 2009.
Born in Galashiels, in the Scottish borders, in 1951, Miller often joked that she was a child of the “Formica generation” and did not begin collecting antiques until the 1960s, while studying at Edinburgh University. She began researching the inexpensive plates she bought in the city’s junk stores, sourcing information in books, auction catalogues, and local antique fairs. Her love of collecting and her passion for sharing her knowledge and expertise grew, leading her to become one of the most prominent and respected figures in the antiques world.
Many fans and colleagues have shared their condolences and memories of Miller, highlighting her warmth and generosity. Alison Starling, from Octopus publishing group, which owns Mitchell Beazley, said, “I’ve been lucky enough to work with Judith on and off for the last 30 years, and the news of her death is a huge shock. She had such energy and spirit, and always combined her impressively broad-ranging, in-depth knowledge of antiques with a lifelong passion to make the world of collecting accessible and unintimidating to all.”
Miller’s impact on the world of antiques cannot be overstated. She possessed a deep understanding of the history and importance of the items she worked with and a talent for bringing those items and their stories to life. Her passing is a significant loss to the antiques community and to the many fans who admired her work.
Despite her extraordinary accomplishments, Miller remained approachable and humble throughout her life. She leaves behind her second husband, John Wainwright, three children, and four grandchildren. Her legacy will continue to inspire and educate antiques enthusiasts for generations to come.
The antique world has lost a true icon with the passing of Judith Miller. Her expertise and passion for all things antique shone through in her work on Antiques Roadshow and in her numerous books. Her legacy will live on as she inspired generations to appreciate the value and beauty of antiques. Miller will be greatly missed but her impact on the world of antiques will continue to shine bright. Rest in peace, Judith Miller.
