A woman named Jessica Vincent purchased a vase for a mere $4 at a thrift store, unaware of its true value. This vase turned out to be a rare piece of Murano glass, crafted by the famed Venetian architect Carlo Scarpa in the 1940s. The vase, part of the "Pennellate" series known for its intricate design and limited production, was later auctioned in New York for a staggering sum exceeding $107,000.
Vincent initially thought the vase could be worth a couple of thousand dollars, but further investigation revealed its extraordinary worth. The vase, characterized by its unique sea foam green and burgundy swirls mimicking brushstrokes, was discovered in a bustling thrift store in a Virginia county, near Richmond.
To authenticate the vase, glass experts Jim Oliveira and Sara Blumberg traveled to Virginia for a direct examination. They compared it to a catalogue from a 2013 exhibition in Venice, which showcased Scarpa's designs. Oliveira and Blumberg initially estimated the vase's value between $30,000 and $50,000, based on prior sales of similar items, which ranged from $30,000 to $200,000.
The vase eventually sold for far more than expected at Wright Auctions, with the final price including fees reaching $107,100. Vincent, astonished by the windfall, planned to use the funds for home renovation and a celebratory dinner, likening the experience to winning the lottery.
Jean Dubreil