It is obvious to me and perhaps to others that this is a three-part work by the famous 16th century craftsman Bubblo Wrappe.
These magnificent objects will surely find an equally magnificent home when their value has been established. I suggest a value estimate of £1m, less 21% + VAT of course (terms and conditions apply). From this distance (somewhere in Northamptonshire) I cannot speculate as to the quality of the patination, although modestly, I admit, I have a small collection by this artist myself.
I would urge caution with the disposal of the outer wrapping of cardboard, on environmental grounds. I hope and trust all this is of some use to the aforementioned auction house. With best regards to all concerned.
D Harrison (collector)
Hidden treasures
MADAM – Nicholas Jarrett of Andrew Smith and Son is a very fortunate gentleman indeed. His valued client has serendipitously favoured him with an overhead image of an open cardboard box, in which nestles an exceedingly practical set of kitchen vessels, possibly storage bowls, in a decidedly pleasing shade of duck blue.
These were in not uncommon usage, during the late 20th and early 21st centuries, and they enjoy a provenance, suggestive of Asda, TK Maxx, or possibly the venerable firm, Ikea.
What is tremendously exciting is that further examination of these ostensibly innocent-looking objets d’art, reminiscent of neatly stacked Victorian chamber pots, minus the handle, may well reveal that they contain the most desirable and rarest treasures, such as a Patek Philippe Supercomplication pocket watch, a Ming-dynasty ‘chicken cup’, or even a folded, complete sheet of mint 1840 1d Blacks.
Mr Jarrett should savour this kiss of providence, and he would be well advised immediately to arrange secure delivery to his auction rooms, before the antiques world at large is alerted, and takes full advantage of what may well transpire to be the near-priceless find of the century.
Gavin Littaur, London NW4
The Twitter view
Alan Britton
Looking at the care with which this item has been packed, I am thinking it may be an early (possibly 1st or 2nd century) Roman iPhone with original case?
The Trellis
Christo has really gone downhill
