Could there be an item worth a six figure sum sitting unappreciated in your home?

The article below is carried in the current edition of the Antiques Trade Gazette, the UK's leading antiques trade paper. The Chinese bowls were discovered by our consultant valuer James Bridges, and had until now remained unidentified as 18th century examples of international importance. They had even been used by the owner for many years at drinks and dinner parties!

Martel Maides hold fortnightly valuation days offering free appraisals of your antiques and collectables, or alternatively home visits for larger items and collections.

"GUERNSEY auctioneers MARTEL MAIDES look set to become the latest UK regional firm to benefit from the rise and rise of Chinese mark and period porcelain after three Yongzheng period (1723-1735) famille rose bowls were consigned by a Channel Islands family who have owned them for at least 80 years. 

A pair of 4 3/4in (12cm) bowls, each with a six character mark to the base, share their rare decoration with a single bowl, formerly in the Robert Chang Collection, sold at Christie’s Hong Kong in November 2006 for a premium inclusive HK$5,496,000 (then $710,188). An estimate is available on request.