Wedlake Bell LLP‘s practice is well-placed to advise its portfolio of clients on the buying, selling and financing of art and luxury assets, to assist with international loan management, and to handle the array of complex disputes, from complex inheritance issues to art restitution cases. Rudy Capildeo and ’superb solicitor’ Tim Maxwell are at the helm of the offering. Capildeo brings to bear particular expertise assisting international clients including private collectors, artists, galleries and museum dealers, while Maxwell’s experience includes non-contentious sales and purchases and the financing aspects of art deals. Petra Warrington specialises in a range of art disputes and transactions. Recent team developments include the October 2024 arrival of Elizabeth Scandrett, who has expertise handling complex disputes for clients spanning the array of creative industries, and the April 2025 arrival of art and heritage specialist Clarissa Levi. Tamara Wakeford left the team in May 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Wedlake Bell's art law team works across disciplines with experts in dispute resolution and high-end transactions.’
‘Tim Maxwell is a superb solicitor with expertise handling disputes. Rudy Capildeo and Petra Warrington are highly skilled at guiding clients in nuanced art transactions.’
‘I have worked closely with Elizabeth Scandrett for many years and I rate her highly. She is relentlessly hardworking, clever, empathic, a pleasure to work with and always focused on ensuring the best outcome for her clients.’
‘Wedlake Bell’s art and cultural property practice combines deep sector knowledge with a pragmatic, solutions-focused approach that sets it apart. The team is highly responsive, commercially aware, and well-versed in the complexities of working with cultural institutions, offering clear and actionable legal advice.’
‘Rudy Capildeo stands out for his sharp legal mind, deep understanding of the art world, and calm, solutions-oriented approach. He is consistently responsive, thoughtful, and clear in his advice—qualities that are invaluable when navigating sensitive cultural matters. What sets Rudy apart is his ability to bridge legal precision with a strong grasp of institutional realities, making him a trusted advisor rather than just an external counsel.’
‘I love working with the team, not only the partners but also the rest of the team are very well-qualified and are very hard workers. Time and time again, they deliver.’
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Rudy Capildeo; Tim Maxwell
Other key lawyers
Petra Warrington; Elizabeth Scandrett; Clarissa Levi