A charity shop manager’s instinct led to an astonishing financial windfall when two seemingly ordinary pieces of crockery were identified as valuable antiques. The items, a dish purchased for just £2 and a vase priced at £100, were initially overlooked but later proved to be significant 19th-century Chinese artifacts.
The dish, decorated with blue and yellow dragons, was found at a thrift store in Dorset. After a similar vase was donated to a charity shop in Surrey, the manager decided to have both pieces appraised at the auction house Woolley and Wallis. There, John Axford, the Chairman and Asian Art specialist, quickly recognised their historical importance.
Valuation and Auction Success
Both items date back to the Daoguang period of 1821-1850, a conclusion supported by the six-character mark found on the dishes, which is also present in the Chinese Imperial collection. The dish was estimated to sell for between £1,500 and £2,000, but the final bid exceeded expectations, reaching a remarkable £7,000.
The ovoid vase, featuring three vibrant dragons chasing a sacred pearl amidst clouds and flames, also attracted significant interest during the auction. Originally expected to fetch between £1,500 and £2,500, it ultimately sold for £5,080. Both pieces were auctioned during Woolley and Wallis‘ Fine Asian Art sale on November 11, 2023.
Impact on Charity and Community
The total proceeds from the sale amount to approximately £12,000, a substantial profit for the charity shop. The funds raised are set to support local charitable initiatives, demonstrating the potential hidden value within everyday items found in thrift stores.
This remarkable story highlights the importance of thorough evaluations in the world of antiques and the impact that small donations can have on charitable organizations. It serves as a reminder to the public to consider the treasures that could be hiding in their local shops.
