FROME-based auction house, Dore & Rees, held its second Asian Art auction this month under the direction of Lee Young, a well-known face from the Antiques Roadshow and specialist in Asian Art.
Dores & Rees reports, “Totalling just over £560,000, the auction demonstrates a marked growth from the inaugural auction in this category in May. Offering a wide range of items including furniture, ceramics, hardstones, sculptures, bronzes, books and textiles, there was a high level of interest in the auction from a global audience.
“The furniture section of the sale was particularly noteworthy, featuring pieces made of highly prized zitan and huanghuali wood. A rare huanghuali six post Chinese bed dating to the late Ming/early Qing period was the star lot of the sale.
“Well viewed and inspected during exhibition in London and Frome, intense bidding for the piece ensued on auction day, with two bidders battling it out to the final price of £182,000.
“A large bronze censer and stand, 17th/18th century, received a lot of attention and reached a final price of £37,700. And a finely carved libation cup, showing scholars in a wooded mountain landscape sold for £19,500. In the ceramics section, a large wucai beaker vase dating to the 17th century made £6,500.”
Head of sale and managing director, Lee Young adds, “The second Asian Art auction for Dore & Rees, presented online and in our newly refreshed premises in Frome, shows what can be achieved with a fresh and new approach for the business.
“It’s encouraging to see how quickly sales are gaining international reach and audiences online and offline are really responding to the new sales programme. We have an exciting 2022 ahead of us with new specialists joining the team and departments soon to launch, including Jewellery and Militaria.
“We kick off the new year with the first of our Select Interiors auctions offering high quality furniture, pictures, silver and decorative items for the home.”
Dore & Rees offer auction estimates for items you may be considering selling by auction and formal valuations for probate purposes. Please contact the office for more information or visit www.doreandrees.com (01373 462257)
