Forgotten Ming dynasty treasure valued at £288,000 after attic discovery

The ornamental pomegranate-shaped box, acquired by Major Edward Copleston Radcliffe shortly after World War II, was recently rediscovered during a routine search of stored household items. The find prompted the family to seek professional assessment, leading to a comprehensive evaluation by Dreweatts auction house, one of Britain's oldest and largest independent auctioneers.

Experts determined the box represents a rare example of Xuande-marked porcelain, a designation that places it among the most prized artifacts from China's Ming dynasty. The Xuande period, spanning 1426-1435, is widely regarded as a pinnacle of Chinese ceramic craftsmanship, with pieces from this era commanding premium valuations in the global antiquities market.

The dramatic appreciation in value—from approximately £19 to £288,000 over seven decades—underscores the significance of authenticated Ming dynasty artifacts. Such treasures, particularly those featuring intricate enamel work and imperial markings, remain highly sought by collectors and museums worldwide.

The successful sale highlights the importance of professional appraisal for inherited items and overlooked family collections. Many households across Asia and Europe harbor similar artifacts acquired during colonial periods or international trade, often with little awareness of their cultural and monetary worth.