NEWPORT, RI.- Few people possess the uncanny ability to uncover hidden gems in the world of art and antiquities quite like Lark E. Mason Jr., the renowned expert and longtime appraiser on PBS’s Antiques Roadshow. On Wednesday, July 17 at 6 p.m., Mason will take the stage at Rosecliff to present “Discovering America’s Treasures”, as part of The Preservation Society of Newport County’s Summer Lecture Series.

With a career spanning more than three decades, Mason has built a reputation for identifying extraordinary works of art that have lain unnoticed — sometimes for generations. His passion for discovery and scholarship has made him one of America’s most respected voices in the field of antiques.

“Lark Mason has a trove of incredible stories about artworks that were long overlooked before being recognized for their true significance,” said Trudy Coxe, CEO and Executive Director of The Preservation Society. “We are honored to have him on our Board of Trustees and delighted to welcome him as a featured speaker this summer.”

A specialist in Asian art and antiquities, Mason spent 25 years at Sotheby’s New York, where he served as a senior officer and Chinese art expert. His deep knowledge and keen eye have helped authenticate countless treasures, adding depth and value to private collections and public institutions alike.

Beyond his regular appearances on Antiques Roadshow, Mason has made significant contributions to the field through leadership and entrepreneurship. He is the founder of iGavel Auctions, an online auction platform; Lark Mason Associates, a full-service auction house; and Lark Mason Art Advisory, which provides appraisal and consulting services. He also served as President of the Appraisers Association of America from 2019 to 2021.

In addition to his work as an appraiser and auctioneer, Mason is a published author and scholar. His book Asian Art was released in 2003, and he translated Wang Shixiang’s seminal text Connoisseurship of Chinese Furniture, further cementing his role as a leading authority in the field.

Tickets for the Rosecliff lecture are available at www.newportmansions.org/events.