Christine Rehm Hunter, who once swapped a routine bargain for a remarkable find, illustrates how everyday purchases can uncover remarkable value. Five years ago, while living near Alicante with her husband, Manfred, she bought two glass vases at a jumble sale for just eight euros. This Tuesday, those same vases were auctioned for £1,200 (about 1,365 euros).
At the time of purchase, Rehm admitted the items likely came from a trunk of abandoned possessions. She explained she liked the style and color, and the seller, who had initially marked them at ten euros, allowed her to take them for eight euros because he wanted to clear inventory. The Sun reported her words on the scene of the discovery.
Following the acquisition, the vases were placed in a display case as part of the home’s decor while the couple considered their potential value. A valuation visit to Richard Winterton Auctioneers at Burton Market Hall revealed a different prospect: the items could hold substantial worth, prompting the buyer to seek a more precise assessment before drawing any conclusions.
Genuine Loetz Parts
Upon returning to England in 2021, the owner pursued a formal valuation. An antiques expert identified the pieces as original Loetz parts. Loetz is a renowned Bohemian Art Nouveau glass designer whose items can command high prices at auction, sometimes reaching the thousands of pounds depending on rarity and condition.
The vases measure about 13 centimeters in height and feature a cloverleaf form that places them in the Phaenomen de Loetz genus. Dating from the 1900s, these pieces illustrate Loetz’s peak period for art glass excellence. Sarah Williams of Richard Winterton Auctioneers provided expert input during the valuation, and the items were subsequently presented at auction on Tuesday, May 2.
The lozenge-like wavy or feathered surface is produced by wrapping strips of hot glass around a molten base, a technique that was patented in 1898 and became one of Loetz’s signature methods.
“I’m so glad I brought them”
Loetz’s factory pieces are among the most iconic examples of Art Nouveau glass. The company endured upheavals such as World War I, the 1930s Depression, and several factory fires before finally closing its doors in 1947. Their enduring appeal remains evident in the continued interest of collectors and museums alike.
The couple, now with three adult children, returned to the UK in 2021 after spending 15 years in Spain. Christine has expressed pride in bringing the vases back with them, noting their potential value and historical significance as factors that elevated their status beyond simple decorative objects.