Unwanted vase auctioned for £100,000

A vase that sat unwanted for years in a Cumbrian living room has sold for more than £100,000 at auction.

The rare 18th century Chinese ornament was taken by its owner to a valuation day in Kendal, where its historical and monetary value was revealed.

It was expected to sell for between £50,000 and £80,000, but after keen bidding at Bonhams Fine Chinese Art sale yesterday, it went for £110,500.

Bonhams say an anonymous Chinese buyer won the bidding.

Famille Rose Chillong bottle vases were produced for Chinese emperors, and are highly sought after.