Chapter 58: Identification and Trading

Chapter 58: Identification and Trading

Just ten minutes later, Henry returned to Li Yi's room and confirmed that they would go to Qishi Pavilion to authenticate the jade.

Earlier, Henry had called their consulate in Guangshen and inquired about relevant issues. The response he received was that Qishi Pavilion is a renowned antique jade trading and appraisal institution in the Guangshen area. The appraisal certificates they issue are highly respected and credible within the industry.

Furthermore, according to the laws of the Dragon Kingdom, any formal appraisal agency that issues an official appraisal certificate will be legally responsible. If evidence arises showing that the item is a fake or inconsistent with the appraisal opinion they provided, Henry could pursue legal action.

With this confirmation from the embassy staff, Henry was completely reassured.

Qishi Pavilion is located in the antique market, but unlike the street vendors, they have rented a standalone three-story building at the center of the market, which makes a strong impression.

It was already past five o'clock when Li Yi and the others arrived. According to local regulations, the market would close at 5:30.

As soon as Li Yi and the others walked in, the staff rushed to greet them.

"Hello, sir. How can we assist you?"

Noticing that Henry and Jason were foreign, the staff were especially enthusiastic.

"Please call your best appraiser here. We need an appraisal."

"Are you sure you want the best appraiser? Please be aware that Professor Huang's fees are not cheap."

"How much are the fees? Is there a separate charging standard?" Li Yi asked immediately.

"Single service is 500 yuan, and if you require an appraisal certificate, it will be an additional 50%."

"So, it's 750 yuan per appraisal?" Li Yi clarified.

"Yes."

Without hesitation, Li Yi responded, "Alright, call him over!"

"Sir, please follow me. We have a special room for treasure appraisals."

Soon, the group followed the staff to the second floor of Qishi Pavilion and were escorted into a private room.

While the staff went to fetch the appraiser, Li Yi briefly told Henry and the others about the conversation he had with the staff.

When Henry learned that the appraisal fee was as high as 750 yuan, he was somewhat surprised. At the same time, he realized that the treasure Li Yi had brought must be valuable to justify such a cost.

Shortly after, the door to the appraisal room opened, and an elderly man in his sixties walked in, accompanied by several staff members.

Upon seeing Li Yi and his group, the old man immediately spoke.

"Which of you needs an appraisal? Please show me the items."

Li Yi did not immediately present the items. Instead, he asked, "Sir, could we first see your credentials before we proceed with the appraisal?"

The staff had obviously anticipated this request and professionally handed over several official certificates.

"Huang Hexiang, Master Appraiser of Cultural Relics in the Dragon Kingdom."

"Huang Hexiang, National Registered Cultural Relics Auctioneer of the Dragon Kingdom."

"Huang Hexiang, Senior Cultural Relics Restorer of the Dragon Kingdom."

After reading through the credentials, Li Yi handed them over to Henry and translated the details into English for him.

Once Henry gave his full approval, Li Yi instructed Wei Sanpao to bring out the treasure and place it on the appraisal table.

When Mr. Huang saw the treasure that Li Yi wanted appraised, he was momentarily stunned. Then his expression turned serious.

He took a magnifying glass and examined the piece carefully.

After three rounds of inspection, he set the magnifying glass down and said, "This is a jadeite carving from the middle Ming Dynasty. It's carved from a solid piece of waxy jade. Although the quality is not the highest, it was made by a famous artist."

As Mr. Huang shared his findings, Li Yi translated for Henry and the others.

Upon learning that the treasure had a history of over 400 years, Henry was both excited and amazed. He immediately asked, "How much is this treasure worth?"

Li Yi translated Henry's question and asked Mr. Huang for an estimate.

Mr. Huang immediately replied, "The value of antique relics is quite elastic. It depends on the relic itself, but also factors such as the method, location, and time of sale. For instance, if you sell it privately, the price would be lower. However, if it goes to auction, the price would be higher."

"Last year, a similar treasure appeared at Sotheby's Autumn Auction and sold for 650,000 dragon yuan. Not only is this treasure larger in size, but the carving is more detailed. So, I would estimate its value at around 700,000 yuan. If it goes to auction, the transaction price could be as high as 750,000 yuan."

Upon hearing this, not just Henry and Jason, but even Wei Sanpao, the "insider," was stunned.

"700,000! That's incredible!" Henry couldn't help but exclaim.

"Is the value really that high?" Henry asked in disbelief.

Li Yi translated Henry's question once again. After all, he wanted everyone to feel comfortable and confident about the transaction.

Mr. Huang nodded and said, "While this jade carving may not be a national treasure, its value is still significant. Based on the current market price for jade, such a large piece of waxy jade would be worth at least 250,000 yuan. The historical value, coupled with the fact that it was made by the renowned artist Li Wenshan during the late Ming Dynasty, boosts its worth by at least 300,000 yuan. With the research value included, the estimated range of 700,000 to 750,000 yuan is quite reasonable."

"Can I get an official appraisal certificate?" Henry asked again.

"Of course, you can also seek additional appraisals from other agencies."

Li Yi nodded and said, "Then please have Mr. Huang issue the official appraisal certificate."

"Alright."

After leaving the Stone Pavilion, Li Yi immediately spoke, "Henry, there are three other agencies with similar credentials nearby. We could seek additional appraisals if you prefer. Of course, if the price exceeds your budget, we can always..."

Before Li Yi could finish, Henry hurriedly interrupted, "Li, there's no need for further appraisals. I want to buy this treasure. Name your price."

"Are you sure? Keep in mind, my asking price is close to the appraisal estimate," Li Yi clarified.

Henry immediately responded, "In that case, I'll offer 750,000 yuan. What do you think?"

"Alright, but we'll need to sign a formal sales contract and have it notarized at the Longguo notary office to ensure fairness and legality."

"No problem."

"Then, we have a deal."

"Agreed."

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