Virginia Woman’s $4 Second-Hand Vase Revealed as $1.4M Masterpiece by Carlo Scarpa

Virginia Woman Discovers $4 Flower Vase Purchased at Second-Hand Store is a Masterpiece by Italian Artist Carlo Scarpa

A surprising turn of events unfolded when a $4 flower vase, bought at a second-hand store in Virginia, was revealed to be a masterpiece by renowned Italian artist Carlo Scarpa. The vase, part of Scarpa’s “Peneleite” series known for its vibrant colors and brushstroke-like design, fetched a staggering price of over $1.4 million at auction.

Unexpected Treasure Unveiled

Jessica Vincent, the buyer of the flower vase, initially purchased it for its attractive design, unaware of its true value. However, upon closer inspection, Vincent discovered a small ‘M’ mark on the vase’s bottom, indicating its origin on Italy’s Murano Island. Intrigued by her findings, Vincent shared her discovery on Facebook, where users quickly recognized the vase as a work by Carlo Scarpa.

Auction Highlights

The auction, which garnered significant media attention from outlets like The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, showcased the vase’s impeccable condition. Richard Wright, the owner of the auction company, expressed amazement at the vase’s pristine state. He speculated that any imperfections would have significantly diminished its value.

The final auction price of over $100,000 far exceeded the initial estimated range of $30,000 to $50,000. Jessica Vincent received an impressive sum of $83,500 (excluding auction fees), which she plans to utilize for the renovation of a horse farm.

Carlo Scarpa’s Artistic Legacy

Carlo Scarpa, renowned for his architectural contributions and innovative use of materials, studied architecture at the Venice School of Fine Arts. His designs continue to have a lasting impact on the art world, extending even to the Italian jewelry brand Bulgari, which unveiled interior designs inspired by Scarpa’s works in their flagship store.

Hidden Treasures and Enduring Value

The transformation of a $4 flower vase into a masterpiece serves as a reminder of the hidden treasures and enduring value found in the world of art. This remarkable discovery emphasizes the importance of recognizing the true worth of objects that may be found in unexpected places.