Friday, March 5, 2021

Blue and White Treasure

Rare Chinese bowl

 Did you see the news story yesterday about the $35 yard sale find that was appraised at upwards of half a million dollars? The bowl is a rare early fifteenth century artifact that will go to auction at Sotheby's on March 17th. There are only seven of these bowls known to exist in the world, most in museums. I have so many pieces I have found at thrift stores and such. I always wonder if I might have some treasure. 

This was a smart person to send their photos off to Sotheby's. I have had mixed experiences with lesser auction houses. Before I moved to Florida, I had several JFK letters belonging to my late husband appraised by a DC auction house as signed by his secretary and they all turned out to be original JFK signatures. It will be interesting to see what this sells for as the Asian antiques market has been so hot.

6 comments:

  1. I had a similar experience with an old book. I was told it was a reproduction when it was the real thing. I guess you always need to get a second opinion.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, antique appraising is an art, not a science.

      Delete
  2. How fabulous for the finder of this artifact! I did not see the news story. I would definitely get appraisals for your found treasures, Beth.

    ReplyDelete
  3. My heart kinda skipped a beat! That is gorgeous!! Can't wait to hear the gavel price!!! I certainly have no comparable finds; closest I can come to that is sterling silver Tiffany cufflinks rolled up in the cuffs of a like-new women's shirt I paid $1.99 for at my favorite thrift store, discovered once I was home & preparing to launder it. Valued @ about $300. Still, TIFFANY! I felt so lucky! But the buyer of that little bowl: GOLDEN!!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I am intrigued by cufflinks in a woman's shirt. Unusual.

      Delete