He travelled abroad many times to study pictures, but was also interested in framing, picture restoration, artists' materials, prints, china and glass. His frequent visits to sales, particularly in large country houses, gave him the opportunity to buy rare books as well as pictures. The collection was presented to the University of Sussex Library by his widow in December 1993, and is particularly rich in first editions of English literature, and in illustrated books in the fields of travel and costume.
Colour printing is well represented, and there are some fine bindings.