Antique censer beats estimate in Surrey sale

A fine antique Satsuma twin-handled censer and cover by Kinkozan from the Meiji period sold for more than 11 times its low estimate at Catherine Southon’s recent auction in Surrey.

The censer and cover had been expected to sell for between £400 to £600, but eventually went down at £4,500 (£5,472 with buyer’s premium).

With bidding in the room, online and over the phone, the piece sold to a buyer in the room, a private collectors of Asian Art from Kent. The buyer said, “I am really delighted that I was successful. I wish I had got it at a lower price, but you have to pay for quality and this is such an exquisite piece, I am full of admiration for the artistry.”

Auctioneer Catherine Southon commented, “The heavily embellished censer with gilt stylised flower patters and finely painted central panels with a ceremonial court scene and a coastal scene on the other side are just divine. I was very excited when I first saw it and am so pleased it is going to a good home.”

Elsewhere in the sale, a collection of 17 original Punch magazine covers sold for £1,560 hammer price.