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Man discovers 18th century Chinese porcelain bought for next to nothing, is about to be auctioned for a fortune
A curious discovery in the world of antiques is about to yield a significant amount of money for American John Carcerano. In a modest thrift store in Illinois, United States, Carcerano acquired a plate for just US$ 4,99 (about R$30). Little did he know that the rare piece that had just been acquired was a Chinese porcelain from the 18th century, valued at up to US$ 6.000 (about R $ 28 thousand).
From the thrift store shelf to the auction
Prisoner, with more than 35 years of experience in buying and selling antiques, he stepped up his visits to local thrift stores after facing health problems in 2023, which kept him away from work for eight months. “The strategy is to be there when the carts are placed on the shelves, as the best pieces tend to be taken quickly,” shared Carcerano.
The valuable piece remained hidden beneath a modern plate until its discovery in October.
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The surprising origin of the rare piece
Research has revealed that the porcelain is a “Chinese heraldic export rectangular beveled tray” from the period qianlong of the dynasty Qing, dated around 1755.
Decorated with the coat of arms of Mendes da Costa, the piece is one of the few that have been sold in recent years 50 years.
An expert from the renowned auction house Sotheby's, and other establishments, confirmed its authenticity, describing it as highly valuable.
The auction and the expectation of sale
Carcerano's discovery is scheduled to be auctioned at Sotheby's in New York in June.
With an estimated value between US$ 4.000 e US$ 6.000, the piece represents a rare opportunity in the world of antiques.
Prisoner used the Google Lens to quickly check the potential value of the item by finding references from previous sales in the range US$ 4.400 (about R $ 26 thousand).
The antiques scene and the thrift market
For Carcerano, the thrift store's proximity to Chicago's affluent northern suburbs increases his chances of finding valuable items.
His frequent visits to the site show that with patience and determination, it is possible to find real treasures. “Sometimes you have to dig a little deeper, but the rewards can be significant,” he said, highlighting the importance of always being on the lookout for unique opportunities in the antiques and thrift market.
This story not only highlights the incredible finds that can be made at thrift stores, but also reinforces the rich heritage of rare pieces de Chinese porcelain that still fascinate collectors and enthusiasts from all over the world world.
SOURCE: TERRA
