A Chinese porcelain vase, estimated at just £200-300, has fetched an astonishing £11,700, including premium, at John Nicholson’s Islamic & Oriental Art auction on November 22.

The 21cm high Qianlong period Benbahu vase, adorned with a green ground and painted with auspicious symbols and lotus motifs, was consigned by a local seller. Although undoubtedly a fine piece from a renowned period, its valuation was set low because of visible damage and extensive prior repairs.

Despite the clear damage and repairs, bidding was fierce with a buyer from the Far East swopping in with the winning bid.

Auction house John Nicholson’s said that Chinese porcelain continues to impress at auction, as demonstrated in their recent Islamic & Oriental Art auction.