These days, items anywhere from household appliances to cars and art, are made for the masses and are as cost-effective as possible. But anything vintage or older was built differently. Things made way back when were made to last and are mostly handmade. Machines and automation are the modern way to get things done, and if we go back even further, to ancient art and artifacts, these were all made with b***d, sweat, and tears. Craft and mastery were involved. You had to know what you were doing to be any good.
But when you go so far back, it’s hard to tell what the value is and just how much it’s actually worth. We’re talking thousands of years ago about beautiful antiquities that come from the far, far east. To get an accurate evaluation, you need a professional who knows what they’re talking about. Like Antiques Roadshow’s Lark E. Mason with Lark Mason Associates from New York who was rendered speechless and choked up while appraising a piece of Chinese history.
When Antiques Roadshow stopped in Albuquerque, New Mexico, a woman brought in something she’s had for years. It’s a Chinese sculpture of a lion made of marble. She knew had something of value in her hands but didn’t know how much. As she discusses the piece with Lark, she tells him how she acquired it. It once belonged to her grandparents who used to travel to China frequently. The piece was given to the woman’s mother and has since inherited it. It’s in the woman’s possession, and all she knows is that it’s from the Ming Dynasty. But there’s more, and it’s actually from a different dynasty.
This is where Lark steps in and says, “It’s fantastic.” He becomes watery-eyed, and is so moved by the pristine condition it’s in, going on to explain how “it’s among the finest examples of Chinese art that we have seen at the roadshow.” He tells her how the carving and workmanship are exceptional and the carver who created this was truly a master. It also happens to be made out of the finest quality of marble you can get. He goes on to describe the texture and detail, constantly singing its praises. The man is beside himself with the beauty of the piece.
He tells her a little more about the time frame and era of the sculpture, then gives her a staggering figure of what it’s worth. This piece is quite the gem!
Click below to learn more about this gorgeous piece of history. It’s amazing to think about how old and valuable it actually is.
