Chapter 811 The Bidding Begins
The production tear was aware of the audience’s reaction. However, as program creators, they couldn’t help but hold Wynter in high regard.
Bill prided himself on his knowledge and passion for literary antiques and often used his expertise to criticize others and boast of his abilities. Despite his difficult demeanor, the show couldn’t proceed without inviting him.
Lindsay was quick to think on her feet. “It’s normal to have disagreements in the pursuit of artifact analysis. Mr. Loft, there’s no need to rush to conclusions. Young people might understand more than we think. Let’s take another look. I’m sure our viewers are eager to see each expert’s appraisal.”
“All right, let’s begin with the item to my left. Item number one is a late Atlantean–carved wooden Kannon. Let the auction begin!”
The room buzzed with excitement
“Can anyone tell if this Kannon is real or fake?
“The first item is usually genuine.”
“Look! Mr. Loft is already examining it with a magnifying glass
Tobias was also scrutinizing the item. Recently, he had been reading books on antique appraisal. Based on what he’d learned about the craftsmanship and patina, the wooden statue seemed to be an old piece with some history. However, he trusted Wynter’s judgment more than his amateur assessment.
Since Wynter hadn’t made a move, Tobias didn’t raise his paddle either. However, the Kannon statue was lifelike and captivating. The serene expression, the smooth and pleasing surface, and the rich patina gave
it an aged and dignified feel.
To aid the bidders in their judgment, the item was passed around for a closer look.
After Bill examined the artifact he signaled for Naomi to raise her paddle. Another team also placed a bid.
The statue was worth bidding for, even if it was a replica. There’s a saying: “Gold in times of chaos, antiques in times of peace.”
The Victorian era was a flourishing period for antiques. During that period, warlords looted many royal tombs, unearthing a wealth of valuable artifacts.
In addition, some palace treasures were illicitly sold, which led to a surge in private collections. This era also saw a rise in counterfeit antiques, with renowned artist Paul Zedd being a master forger whose replicas of paintings were almost indistinguishable from the originals.
So, the Kannon could still be valuable, even if it wasn’t genuine. It was evident that only Tobias” group hadn’t placed a bid. They didn’t even raise their paddle.
Bill sneered. His laughter reverberated throughout the room. “Some people don’t seem to understand what antiques are or how auctions work. Have they even been to an auction before?”
“Mr. Loft is right. They probably havent.”
“Stars without connections probably can’t afford to attend auctions.”
“It’s laughable that he chose to bring a relative who is so short–sighted.”
Wynter remained unfazed by the criticisms. Lindsay, who worried their group might fall behind in points, gently prompted, “Would you like to place a bid?”
Wynter smiled and replied, “No. Please introduce the next item.”
“The second item from the Shadowvel era might be unfamiliar to some, but it was popular among the young gentlemen of that period. Please take a look.”
“What is this?”
“It’s in her hands. The colors look quite vibrant.
