Chinese Dragon Box Sells for Over 140 Times Its Estimate

A new record was secured for a so-called dragon box with potential imperial provenance at a Bonham’s Sydney outpost, Art Daily reports. The blue and white colored object from the 16th or 17th century sold for more than 140 times the lower bound of its $1,000-2,000 presale estimate for a final price, with 22% buyer’s premium, of $146,400.

Early bidding saw heavy interest both in the room and on the telephones. However, the field soon thinned to two Chinese collectors. One was bidding online while the eventual winner was in the room.

“Despite not being in mint condition, the dragon box is very rare as it is thought to be a Ming Dynasty imperial piece,” an astounded Yves Klein, Bonhams’ Asian Art specialist, told the website. “Like anything with a royal connection, this touch of glamour and exclusivity adds immeasurably to the value of item.”