20-Million Dollar Ming Jar Used as an Umbrella Stand

By | September 14, 2016

For years the owner of this porcelain jar had thought that it dated back to the 18th-century and, although it was beautifully decorated, was not worth much. In fact, the jar was used as an umbrella stand until it was discovered by a specialist in Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art at Christie’s in London.

The jar was actually an extremely rare piece of Chinese porcelain, dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). The jar eventually went to auction, where it sold for a whopping $20,447,642.

Credit: Christie's