BBC’s Antiques Roadshow returned to our screens on Sunday evening, this time filmed at the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh. One guest experienced an awkward moment during the valuation of a rare item brought before expert Gordon Foster. The item in question turned out to be a live fly holder for angling, much to the surprise of the audience who had guessed everything from a lady’s makeup container to a caviar carrying case.
The guest, visibly pleased with the item, shared that it was a gift from his spouse to commemorate their 17th wedding anniversary. Made from solid silver and crafted by the prestigious Asprey of London, the piece was not used for its intended purpose due to concerns over fragility. Gordon Foster, the expert, was impressed by the rarity of the item, noting that he had only come across one similar piece in all his years as an appraiser. The combination of silver content, Art Deco design, and the Asprey name meant the item had great value potential.
After valuing the piece between £2,000 and £3,000, the guest was thrilled with the appraisal. However, the mood shifted slightly when he mentioned that his spouse had paid £4,000 for the item, hinting at a possible undervalue. Despite this comment, both the guest and Gordon shared a laugh, though it was unclear if the remark was made in jest.
This incident brings to mind a story shared by host Fiona Bruce about a harsh appraisal that was not aired on the show. A man was left disappointed when he discovered that his supposed antique, purchased for £1,000, was actually a Tesco olive oil bottle from 2008. The decision to not broadcast this appraisal highlights the delicate balance between entertainment and sensitivity on a show like Antiques Roadshow.
The behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the show give viewers a glimpse into the unpredictable nature of appraisals and the emotional reactions they can evoke. Whether it’s a valuable antique or a common household item, the stories shared on Antiques Roadshow continue to captivate audiences and remind us of the hidden treasures that may be lurking in our homes.
