Christine Rehm hails from a family of thrifty finders. Five years ago, while living near Alicante, she and her husband, Manfred, bought two glass vases at a jumble sale for a total of 8 euros. This Tuesday, those same vases were auctioned for 1,200 pounds, about 1,365 euros.
At the time of the purchase, Rehm admitted the lot came from a market stall that dealt in items found in the trunks of abandoned cars. She explained that she had no idea of the true value, explaining that she liked the style and color. The seller had marked them at 10 euros, but preferred to let them go for 8 euros because he wanted to clear the item quickly. The Sun later reported her remarks.
The buyer kept the pieces in a display cabinet while considering a hall remodel. She eventually took the vases to Richard Winterton Auctioneers at Burton Market Hall for a valuation, hoping to confirm their worth.
Genuine Loetz Parts
After returning to England in 2021, the owner decided to have the vases valued again. An antiques expert identified the pieces as original Loetz parts. Loetz was a renowned Art Nouveau glass designer from Bohemia. In the right market, pieces like these can reach high prices at auction.
The two vases measure about 13 centimeters high and display a cloverleaf form. They belong to the Loetz Phänomen class, dating from around 1900, a period when the firm’s art glass was at a peak of recognition. Sarah Williams, a valuation specialist at Richard Winterton Auctioneers, confirmed their identification and noted the vases were later scheduled for sale on Tuesday, May 2.
Williams explained that the key feature of the Loetz Phänomen is the wavy or feathered surface pattern. This look is achieved by wrapping hot glass strips around a base of molten glass, a technique patented in 1898.
“I’m so glad I brought them”
Loetz pieces are among the most iconic examples of Art Nouveau glass. The company endured the upheavals of history, surviving two world wars, economic crises, and even several factory fires. Ultimately, the firm closed its doors in 1947.
The couple, who have three adult children, moved back to the UK in 2021 after 15 years in Spain. Christine has expressed that she is very happy to have brought the vases along on that move. The story is a reminder that ordinary purchases can become extraordinary finds in the right market, especially when a piece carries a distinctive design from a celebrated maker.