Metal estimate

Do you own an Asian metal object and would like to know its value? Our experts will appraise your Asian metal objects free of charge and help you sell them at auction.

Receive an estimate for your item within 48 hours.

Asian metal objects – Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese or Korean – are highly sought-after, especially antique bronzes, ritual objects and decorative weapons. For example, a bronze statue of a Buddha from the Ming dynasty can fetch €120,000, while a Japanese decorative mirror from the Edo period can fetch €20,000. The market is dynamic and prices vary according to period, provenance, condition and artist. An accurate appraisal will help you determine the value of your object in this booming market.

Estimate and price of Asian metal objects

Prices for Asian metal objects range from a few hundred to tens of thousands of euros. Here are a few examples to illustrate this diversity:

These values depend on the condition, rarity and provenance of the object. Works signed by a recognized artist, such as a katana signed by a blacksmith from the Edo period, can fetch high prices, while an unsigned but well-preserved katana will be valued at around €15,000.

Why should I have my metal object appraised?

You can have your object appraised free of charge for a variety of purposes:

• Insurance: Protect your property in the event of damage. For example, an estimate for a bronze Buddha statuette guarantees that you’ll know its value in the event of a claim.
• Inheritance: A reliable estimate can help you with inheritance tax, as in the case of a Qing dynasty bronze vase valued at €30,000.
• Divide or divorce: For a fair division. If a family is sharing a set of antique Chinese mirrors, knowing the value of each piece helps ensure a fair division.
• Curiosity: Know the value of your object, like a Tang dynasty perfume burner that might be worth more than you think.

How can I get an estimate for my object?

You can request an estimate online. Send us photos and a description of the object via our form. We also organize appraisal days where you can bring your objects, as well as a home appraisal service for large collections.

Recognizing and appraising Asian metal objects

Here are some practical tips for identifying Asian metal objects:

Techniques and materials

• Surface: A quality piece has an even, well-polished surface. For example, an antique statue may have a natural patina, a sign of value. A dark brown or green patina is typical of antique bronzes.
• Decorations: Engravings should be precise and detailed. For example, a decorative mirror from the Heian period in Japan will often show floral or animal motifs. Symbols and motifs, such as dragons or lotus flowers, can indicate a specific origin or period.
• Material: The type of metal affects value. Bronze is often used for statues and ritual objects, while copper is more common for small objects or utensils. A bronze Buddha statuette will be worth far more than a similar copper one.

Signs of authenticity

• Marks: Craftsmen often signed their work. For example, a perfume burner signed by a Ming-era artist can be worth three times as much as an anonymous piece. Signatures, often below the base of the object, help to authenticate and appraise the item.
• Certificates: A certificate of authenticity validates provenance, especially for expensive items. A Japanese sword with a certificate attesting to its Edo origin will be worth more than one without proof of authenticity.

Impact of signature on valuation

The signature of a recognized craftsman or workshop plays a key role in the value of a piece. For example, a Buddha statue signed by a Chinese master of the Ming dynasty could fetch an estimate of €50,000, while an unsigned statue, although authentic, might be estimated at only €20,000.

Condition and origin

• Condition: the state of conservation directly affects the value. For example, a statuette in perfect condition with no cracks or repairs might be valued at €40,000, while a similar piece with damage might only be worth €15,000.
• Provenance: A prestigious provenance considerably increases appeal and value. For example, a bronze statuette that belonged to a Chinese imperial collection can double its estimate to €75,000 because of this history.

A brief history of Asian metal objects

The history of metal objects in Asia goes back thousands of years. For example:

China: Bronzework first appeared in the Shang and Zhou dynasties. Used in religious rites, it reached its apogee under the Ming and Qing dynasties. A ritual bronze vase from the Zhou dynasty can fetch record prices.

Japan: Metal objects, especially katanas, have been prized since the Edo period (1603-1868). For example, a katana from the Edo period, signed by a famous blacksmith, sells for up to €60,000.

Vietnam: Bronze art has ancient roots, influenced by the Dong Son culture (1000 BC). A well-preserved Dong Son bronze drum can be valued at over €100,000.

Korea: Under the Joseon dynasty (1392-1910), Korean metal objects, often inspired by Buddhism and Confucianism, were decorated with discreet motifs such as plum blossoms or bamboo, and are highly prized today for their elegance.

Collectors continue to be interested in antique and contemporary objects that bear witness to Asian history and culture.