Antiques Roadshow

GUEST

It belonged to my father. I don't know if he brought it back in the Second World War or the Korean War, because he was in both. It stayed in the linen closet for 45 years until my father sold the house, and then I acquired it.

APPRAISER

This is an incense burner. It's of Shou Lao, the god of longevity. It's Chinese, 17th century, late Ming dynasty.

GUEST

Really?

APPRAISER

Shou Lao is sitting on a deer, and he's surrounded by peaches of longevity.

The deer itself was a very special deer

it's a spotted deer, which is particularly auspicious. These were used on a scholar's desk as a form of contemplation. These are really popular now on the current auction market.

GUEST

Really?

APPRAISER

And at auction today, it would have a presale estimate of $4,000 to $6,000.

GUEST

Really?

APPRAISER

You've had a little treasure sitting in your closet.

GUEST

Yes! (laughing) I can't believe that!