Oriental box leads to Chinese battle

12th May 2018

A very good entry of some 800 Antiques & Collectables went under the hammer at the Mendip Auction Rooms on 5th May and, in spite of the warmer weather, there was a good attendance of buyers with particularly strong interest over the internet.

Oriental items were in demand and a Chinese cinnabar lacquer lobed box and cover, the lid carved with a dragon among clouds, led to a competition between Chinese buyers eventually selling for £1500, well above estimate. A watercolour and gouache from the 19th century Chinese School of a lady seated also met with keen interest realising £850, well above the estimate of £150 – 200.

Another excellent good entry of jewellery was on offer with strong prices achieved. A spectacular modern white metal pair of single stone diamond earrings made £2700. A delightful 18ct gold hunter pocket watch with an attached curb link albert chain sold for £1700, again well above estimate.

There was an interesting entry of ceramics leading to many specialist buyers being in attendance. A rare Meissen porcelain coffee pot and cover made £1300 and a 19th century Meissen porcelain figure of a cherub £650. A late 18th century Sevres cabaret set achieved £600 and another set £400.

Collectables are always in demand and make an auction room interesting and there was goo demand for all on offer. A pair of black basalt busts of St Vincent and Duncan made £800, well above the estimate of £250 – 350. There was also increased interest for quality furniture with an impressive early 20th century oak roll top desk from a local farming family realising £550, a 19th century oak pokerwork coffer £500 and a small 17th century oak joint school £480.

The next sale of Antiques & Collectables will be on Saturday 9th June and entries are invited.