An Antiques Roadshow expert was left completely shocked when a guest refused to auction her highly valuable plates.
Serhat Ahmet and the audience were stunned when the guest declined to sell her 1896 antique plates, with one estimated to be worth £8,000 at auction. In a memorable episode from last year, the guest was also informed of the other plates' values, which left her speechless.
Serhat estimated that two additional plates could fetch around £5,000, even though he initially valued them at only £100 and £300.
"There are three generations of the Reid family here, a family of potters and artists.
"This is a really good depiction of how the stars of pottery and porcelain changed from about 1820 to about 1925. Tell me how they've come to you,” he said.
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The guest replied, “Charlotte Reid's uncle was my great-grandfather. These pieces have all been passed down through the family.”
Serhat continued, “And on the far side here nearest to you, is a plate that was decorated by George Wallace Croft Reid. And he started the interest the family had in the potteries and then when he had his children, they became involved.
He added, “Frederick Alfred Reid is the person that took inspiration from this plate. This isn't actually his plate. I'm not sure if you're aware?"
“I wasn't sure,” the guest admitted.
The Antiques Roadshow star then discussed the impressive history of the plates. He added: "So the plate on your side there with the fish by George Wallace Croft, £100 at auction."
“Ok,” the guest replied as Serhat valued another plate at £300.
“Now we come to the Frederick Perton plates, a unique pair created when he was just 16 in 1896. I’ve seen these two together in catalogues; they look stunning and truly embody the arts and crafts movement. Unique, one of a pair, the only pair. If they came up at auction, I’d have to pay £5,000 for the pair.”
The guest and audience gasped as she responded: “Wow, I didn’t expect that.”
Serhat asked: “So what are you going to do with the plates now?”
“I’m going to take them home and look after them,” the confident guest replied, causing the audience to laugh.
