Four Chinese objects belonging to Mid Wales vendors were among the star performers at an Asian Art auction in Shropshire yesterday (Wednesday).
Packed with Far Eastern promise, a rare silver-inlaid, bronze figure of Guanyin, goddess of mercy and compassion, sold for £2,700 for one North Powys vendor at Halls Fine Art’s auction in Shrewsbury.
Another North Powys vendor saw a Claire de Lune amphora vase with wood stand sell for £2,600 and a Doucai style miniature cabaret tea service from the Qing Dynasty make £2,100.
The fourth object, a pair of 19th century famille verte vases and covers, which were discovered by Asian Art specialist Alexander Clement, from Halls Fine Art, at a charity valuation event in Aberystwyth, sold for £440.
The 55cms high figure of Guanyin from the Qing Dynasty was modelled standing atop a dragon. “This large figure from the late 18th century or first part of the 19thcentury was quite rare and Guanyin is a favourite in Chinese culture,” said Alexander.
“It had belonged to the same family for some time and the vendor had no idea what it was and it’s potential at auction.
“The Claire de Lune amphora vase and a Doucai style miniature cabaret tea service were included in a collection of Asian pieces and were inherited from a family member who had travelled in the Far East.
“It was also pleasing that the pair of Chinese vases, which we discovered at the charity antiques valuation event in Aberystwyth, sold so well.”
Top price £3,330 in the 285-lot auction was achieved by a beautiful Japanese cloisonne box by master Hayashi Kodenji (1831-1915), while a pair of Satsuma floor vases sold for £3,000.
Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Islamic and South East Asian objects all sold well. “It was really encouraging to see good prices right across the board,” added Alexander.
“Looking at our sales figures for the last couple of years, it’s pleasing to note that our Asian Art department is growing and achieving better prices for exciting objects.
“If anybody has Asian items that they wish to sell or value, please get in touch because it’s well worth getting a professional assessment. The market is still strong and there are some very pleasing surprises for our vendors and us.”
