A seemingly plain vase that had been transformed into a lamp has recently sold at an auction for a staggering £16,500, surprising both the owner and experts alike with its unexpected value. The vase, made of green Chinese porcelain celadon, was initially estimated to fetch around £200 but ended up selling for 80 times that amount to a knowledgeable collector. The unique feature of the vase was a hole drilled into its base, indicating that it had been repurposed as a lamp at some point in its history.
The auction, conducted by The Cotswold Auction Company in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, revealed that the vase likely originates from the Qing dynasty during the Yongzheng emperor’s reign from 1723 to 1735. The seal mark on the base of the vase helped experts determine its historical significance, with the drilled hole affecting its estimated worth. According to a spokesperson, if the seal mark had been intact without the hole, the vase could have potentially fetched an even higher price at auction.
The previous owner of the vase, who resided in the Midlands, was reportedly unaware of the item’s true value, highlighting the unexpected treasures that can be found in everyday objects. Chinese celadon pottery, known for its distinctive green glaze resembling jade, dates back to the Eastern Han Dynasty and is renowned for its exquisite beauty and craftsmanship. The green colour of the glaze is achieved through firing the pottery with iron oxide, creating its signature appearance.
Auctioneer Lindsey Braune expressed astonishment at the outcome, sharing that the Chinese celadon vase exceeded expectations by selling for more than 50 times its high estimate. Braune highlighted the buoyant Chinese market, where items like the vase occasionally surprise auctioneers with their value. The presence of the drill hole through the seal mark added a layer of complexity to evaluating the vase, making the final selling price even more remarkable.
The successful auction of the plain-looking vase turned lamp base serves as a reminder of the hidden gems that can be discovered in seemingly ordinary items. The unexpected value attached to the vase not only delighted the auctioneers but also showcased the enduring allure of Chinese celadon pottery among collectors. The vase’s journey from a functional lamp to a prized auction item speaks to the enduring appeal of antique artefacts and the stories they carry.
In conclusion, the sale of the transformed vase highlights the importance of expertise and diligence in assessing the true worth of historical artefacts. The vase’s remarkable journey from a mundane object to a valuable collector’s item underscores the enduring fascination with Chinese porcelain and the craftsmanship of bygone eras. As the vase finds a new home with a collector, its story continues to captivate and inspire appreciation for the artistry of the past.