Chinese silver hoard found in family attic after 80 years

"Our vendor is a descendant of the original owner, and the collection was entirely unknown until this year," Mr Lafite added.

The collection includes a sterling silver tea set, salver, and ewer, all with finely detailed dragon decoration, carried out by Shanghai silversmith Zeewo.

Included are silver pedestal dishes, and two large presentation plaques.

The majority of the pieces date to between 1900 and 1920.

The collection’s existence was only revealed to the vendor shortly before her father passed away earlier this year.

He told her there was something in the attic, but he had not known how valuable the collection was.

“We are delighted to be entrusted to handle the sale of such a wonderful collection of Chinese silver. The family history and provenance, in addition to the lovely quality of the items, do make it something rather special indeed.” Mr Lafite said.