If you’re lucky enough to own Asian treasures you can find out if they are worth a fortune courtesy of a man who has a wealth of knowledge on the subject.
Renowned expert Lars Tharp, a familiar face on TV’s Antiques Roadshow, is coming to Hansons London Valuation and Consignment Office, 77 Bridge Road, Hampton Court Village, on Thursday, May 3, from 11am-4pm.
Right now, Chinese art and ceramics are surging to success at auction – and it’s certainly a good time to sell.
Mr Tharp, a Danish-born British historian, lecturer and broadcaster, specialises in Chinese ceramics and works of art.
And it’s hoped the people of Hampton Court Village can produce some Oriental treasures to impress him – and rival some recent spectacular finds.
For example, last September an ancient Chinese plate discovered in a kitchen cupboard sold to a Chinese buyer for £230,000 at Hansons London’s sister saleroom, Hansons Auctioneers in Derbyshire.
And, just before Christmas, three small Chinese bowls sold for £62,000 at Hansons. They were bought at junk shops in the 1950s and 1960s for no more than £1 each, according to the vendor.
Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers, said: “Lars is an absolute expert in his field. It’s wonderful to have him with the Hansons London team at a free valuation day as guest consultant.
“The Chinese market has been booming for some time as the country’s growing numbers of wealthy collectors flock to repatriate what they regard as their history and heritage. And they have been paying huge prices for the privilege, frequently outbidding western collectors.
“Some Chinese buyers tell me they feel their past has been looted from them. By buying back their most celebrated porcelains and works of art, pieces often intended for the emperor, they also acquire great kudos.”
Mr Tharp will be at Hansons London’s Valuation and Consignment Office, 77 Bridge Road, Hampton Court Village, KT8 9HH, on Thursday, May 3, from 11am-4pm. To make an appointment to see Mr Tharp, please call 020 8979 7954 or email [email protected].
