A 400-year-old Ming vase, discovered on the landing of a West London home during a routine house clearance, is set to fetch up to £20,000 at auction. The rare porcelain vase, dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), was purchased by the current owner's late father in the 1980s. For over 40 years, the museum-quality treasure stood by the staircase at a property in Middlesex, West London, rather than being kept in a secure location.
Discovery During Routine Valuation
Antiques expert Chris Kirkham, senior valuer at Hansons Auctioneers, was left stunned when he discovered the 17th-century vase, which stands more than half a metre tall, during a routine house call. The remarkable piece is now expected to go under the hammer at Hansons Auctioneers' London saleroom this week, with estimates placing its value between £18,000 and £20,000.
Chris said: "You never know what treasures might await you when you visit a client's home on a routine valuation, but I can tell you I wasn't prepared for this. I was simply staggered. It is incredible that this vase has survived unscathed for 400 years."
Historical Significance
Chris added: "It's amazing to think that when this stunning vase was created, at the time of Charles I, British potters were making do with plain earthenware jars. At the time, Europeans didn't know the secret recipe for porcelain and were mesmerised by the translucent quality of blue-and-white jars like these, which were as valuable as gold."
In 17th-century China, such a piece would have been used as a practical storage vessel for items like pickles or wine, rather than as an ornament. Chris explained: "In China of the late Ming dynasty, even everyday objects were often beautifully decorated. This one shows Chinese scholars in long, flowing robes with a topknot hairstyle. Scholarly life was very important at the time, as success depended on learning rather than birth, as it did in the UK."
It was not until the mid-18th century that British potters uncovered the secrets of true porcelain. Chris noted: "Whether this jar was used by an elite Chinese family 400 years ago, or exported to a wealthy owner in the UK, we may never know. But we are delighted to help it on its way to the next phase of its existence, whether in a collection or museum."
Auction Details
The vase is set to go under the hammer at the auctioneer's saleroom in Richmond, South London, on Thursday, April 30. This extraordinary find highlights the hidden treasures that can emerge during routine house clearances, offering a glimpse into centuries-old craftsmanship and history.
