Lars was born in Copenhagen, educated in England. After studying The Old Stone Age at Cambridge University he joined Sotheby’s, becoming a director and auctioneer with the firm. In 1993 he left to set up his own consultancy business advising museums, auction houses and private owners on the acquisition, care and disposal of ceramics. He lectures worldwide – to Chambers of Commerce, commercial institutions, the National Trust, The National Art Collections Fund, New Scotland Yard, conferences and festivals, etc., etc. - and is a frequent visitor to China, speaking in Beijing and Shanghai. He has numerous books to his name. He is also passionate about music.

A notable expert in ceramics, Lars Tharp is nationally known to viewers of the BBC Antiques Roadshow as well as being a popular and highly entertaining speaker to societies and special gatherings. He appears on numerous Radio and TV programmes, most recently presenting Inside Antiques, his own 12-part series on BBC Four and is a Director of the Foundling Museum in London.

The Making of the Antiques Roadshow – a behind-the-scenes look at our national institution. As well as some Notable Moments, Lars considers What Makes Objects Important...and valuable. And is anything ever broken? Questions you’ve always wanted to ask are answered.