Extremely rare 18th century Chinese vase purchased by a surgeon in England for several hundred pounds in 1980s auctioned off for nearly £1.5 million.
Vase 60 cm (2 ft) with blue glaze, silver and gold, decorated with cranes and bats, was created for court of Emperor Qianlong in 1700s.
Bought by late owner father for his appearance, the vase sat in kitchen of in family midlands home where it was seen in 1990s by antiques expert Mark Newsted during social visit.
Years later, Newsted identified the Qianlong Emperor of China. six-symbol seal sign on its base, and said that the vase was probably on display in halls of Qing palace in mid 18th century.
The Berkshire Drewitts auctioneers estimated it to be worth £100,000-150,000, but on On Wednesday, the piece sold for £1.2 million. with buyer’s premium total closer to £1.5m.
It is reported to have been sold international buyer via telephone.
newsted, who is a consultant in Asian pottery art in Druitts, said: “I was in house with my wife for dinner in 1990s. I was surprised to see the vase in to the kitchen and said, “I think it’s something pretty good, but not pick This is up or inspect it, as that would be inappropriate.
“The surgeon bought it just as a decorative item. We don’t have a receipt, but daughter I’m reasonably sure I bought it sometime between 1988 and 1993. We are delighted with in result. This is shows in demand for the finest porcelain produced in in world”.
Vase with crack in his neck has been described as “evidence of creativity”. of artisans working during the Qianlong period, who used enameling techniques to suit the emperor’s taste in exotic styles.
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It would be required at least three shots in ovens for obtaining various colors, including over 1200C for cobalt blue.
