CHRISTIE'S, in conjunction with Hamilton Osborne King, will be holding a seminar on Irish and Continental paintings and 18th century furniture on Friday, February 7th in the Merrion Room of the RDS, Ballsbridge, Dublin. This day-long event opens with a talk on Irish houses and landscape gardens as shown in contemporary paintings, given by Desmond Fitzgerald, the Knight of Glin.

After this, Lord Poltimore, a director of Christie's, will speak on the subject of the diversity of 19th century pictures, while, following a buffet lunch, Christie's international consultant John Hardy talks of Irish furniture in the 18th century.

The day will conclude with a wine reception, and those attending are also invited to bring photographs and details of any work on which they would like an evaluation. This is a ticket-only affair costing £65 each - including lunch and wine reception - and all proceeds from the day will go to the Down Syndrome Association of Ireland. For further information and to reserve tickets, contact Julie Marshall or Carol Bellamy at Hamilton Osborne King, 4 Main Street, Blackrock, Dublin, tel, 01-2885011.