For those in possesion of Chinese antiques, navigating the consignment process at Christie’s can sometimes be challenging. Based on my personal experience and feedback from private individuals, collectors and dealers, obtaining a clear response or a fair evaluation is not always straightforward.
One recurring issue appears to be that rare and valuable pieces are sometimes overlooked. Every week, numerous items are declined—not necessarily because they lack worth, but perhaps because their significance is not fully recognized.
I have personally encountered instances where Christie’s has rejected pieces, only for them to later achieve strong prices after being correctly appraised by me and showcased in the right setting. Additionally, many people wishing to sell their Chinese antique pieces have reached out to me after experiencing lengthy delays, only to receive a rejection email similar to this:
Dear [Name],
Thank you for reaching out to us regarding the potential consignment of your item(s) for one of our upcoming sales. After careful review by our specialists, we regret to inform you that your piece(s) do not meet the necessary value criteria for inclusion at this time.
We recommend reaching out to a local auction house, which may be better suited to assist you with your consignment.
Should you come across other items in the future that you believe may be of interest, please feel free to contact us again.
We appreciate your interest and thank you for considering Christie’s.
Best regards,
However, in my opinion, a rejection from an auction house does not necessarily mean an item lacks value. I have successfully assisted collectors in navigating the market, helping their pieces gain exposure during Asia Week—one of the most significant events, held twice a year, where serious dealers and collectors seek important acquisitions. With the right strategy and guidance, these items have achieved strong prices at auction.
My approach is simple: if I believe your item has genuine potential, I will help you explore the best avenues for sale. Since I work solely on commission, I only get paid if I succeed—meaning there is no financial risk to you.
While auction house specialists certainly provide valuable insight, I believe that direct market experience and strong buyer connections can sometimes be the key to maximizing an item’s potential. If your piece has real value, I will ensure it reaches the right audience and is given the opportunity to achieve its best price.
Feel free to contact me today—send pictures via the WhatsApp button or email me.
