Antiques Roadshow guest fights back tears as he learns ‘shocking’ value of vase with very lucky detail passed down by late boss

Antiques Roadshow guest fights back tears as he learns 'shocking' value of vase with very lucky detail passed down by late boss

As a seasoned antiques enthusiast, I must say that this article has truly stirred my heart and sparked my curiosity! The transformative power of knowledge is beautifully demonstrated here, as ordinary objects are unveiled to hold extraordinary value.


An Antiques Roadshow guest had to fight back tears after learning the ‘shocking’ value of a vase passed down to him by his late boss. 

During the program, the in-house specialist, Lee Young, was taken aback when a gentleman from Dundee presented one particular object.

In Sunday’s broadcast, he shared with the audience that the vase might have been shipped from Japan to the United Kingdom over a hundred years back.

In Dundee, the visitor shared with the expert aboard the RRS Discovery that they had received it as a generous gift from someone particularly dear to them.

He mentioned that he received it as a fortunate legacy from someone who was extremely close to him, and this person had passed away approximately ten years back.

Antiques Roadshow guest fights back tears as he learns 'shocking' value of vase with very lucky detail passed down by late boss

Antiques Roadshow guest fights back tears as he learns 'shocking' value of vase with very lucky detail passed down by late boss
Antiques Roadshow guest fights back tears as he learns 'shocking' value of vase with very lucky detail passed down by late boss

‘It means a lot to me. He was adamant that I should have it.’ 

For numerous years, even when its former owner was alive, he had harbored deep admiration for that particular vase. He shared that he had first laid eyes on it during his time employed by his boss.

The guest told Lee:  ‘When I worked for him, I always admired it and he asked, “Well what do you want when I pass away? Do you want the mirror in the hall or the vase?”

‘I said, “I just don’t want you to die, I’m not going to tell you”‘. 

He then explained that before his boss fell ill he made a promise that the vase should pass to him.

In a heartfelt manner, Lee expressed his admiration, saying to the weeping guest, “Indeed, this is an exceptionally thoughtful and touching gift, even amidst difficult times.”

He then went on to reveal the history behind the beautiful vase. 

He said: ‘This is a type of ware called Satsuma ware, from Japan.’

Antiques Roadshow guest fights back tears as he learns 'shocking' value of vase with very lucky detail passed down by late boss
Antiques Roadshow guest fights back tears as he learns 'shocking' value of vase with very lucky detail passed down by late boss
Antiques Roadshow guest fights back tears as he learns 'shocking' value of vase with very lucky detail passed down by late boss
Antiques Roadshow guest fights back tears as he learns 'shocking' value of vase with very lucky detail passed down by late boss

Expanding on the information, Lee mentioned that Satsuma ware, a type of pottery, made its Western debut in Paris during the year 1867.

As a seasoned art enthusiast with years of gallery visits under my belt, I must say that this painting took my breath away! The intricate gilding and luxurious decoration were simply breathtaking, making me feel as if I had stepped into another world. And to top it off, the subject matter – processions – is a favorite of mine, adding an extra layer of delight to my experience. This piece truly stands out in my memory as one of the most captivating works I’ve encountered on my artistic journey.

Over the vase, the BBC celebrity detailed the significance of the images adorning it, some depicting riders on horses and others showing individuals being transported in carriages.

But an element that shocked Lee the most was the scale of the vase.

He mentioned that he adores its size, emphasizing that it’s exceptionally large, especially compared to typical Satsuma vases which are usually quite small and delicate.

He then suggested that the vase may date back more than 100 years ago to the late 19th century.

As I gently ran my fingers over the intricate details at the foot of this stunning vase, I couldn’t help but marvel at the craftsmanship. The distinctive maker’s mark, a subtle reminder of its creator – Ryozan and Kyotio – served as a testament to its authenticity, making it a true treasure in any collection.

In terms of its worth, the antique appraiser remarked, “What a remarkable piece! The sheer size of it is astounding. Given its current state, I believe it could fetch between £3,000 and £5,000 if put up for sale today.”

The guest was visibly shocked by the valuation and became emotional. 

Antiques Roadshow guest fights back tears as he learns 'shocking' value of vase with very lucky detail passed down by late boss
Antiques Roadshow guest fights back tears as he learns 'shocking' value of vase with very lucky detail passed down by late boss

With a catch in his throat, he murmured, “This is truly unique. It stirs deep emotions within me as it brings back memories of the person who gifted it.”

1. To my mind, that aspect is crucial. Yet, it involves a substantial sum, which is truly astounding. Incredible, almost unbelievable. Frankly, it’s downright astonishing.

Last week’s episode featured an additional thrilling revelation: A guest was utterly amazed when learning that his previously valued £45 timepiece had unexpectedly surpassed the worth of his pension.

The unusual timepiece belonging to the visitor left the BBC audience breathless with admiration upon learning its high price tag.

On his 21st birthday, which wasn’t long after he enlisted in the Merchant Navy, the visitor mentioned that he had received the watch as a gift.

One rarely-produced watch, numbering only around 400 pieces, has skyrocketed in value to an astounding £40,000. In conversation with appraiser Richard, a guest even suggested that the watch’s worth surpassed the value of his pension.

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2024-08-05 16:36

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