AN EXQUISITE 19th century French fan found in a box of clutter sold for thousands at a Darlington auction house this week.

Bidders from across the world vied for the chance to own the carved ivory and lace fan, which soared way above its £100-200 guide price to sell for £3,600.

The rare item was submitted as a late entrant to this year’s Thomas Watson’s Winter Antiques Catalogue Sale as part of a general box of other objects.

Auctioneer and valuer David Elstob noticed the fan amid the clutter and said: “Without doubt, the fan was of very fine quality even though one of its sticks was damaged.

“The ivory was signed by Alexandre and the painted panels were signed by the artist ED Moreau. It also featured Belgium lace, which is much sought after and probably contributed to the final result.

He added: “This is what makes auctions so exciting. You never quite know what objects will turn up and the power of the Internet means that there is instant worldwide exposure.”

Thomas Watson’s last general sale of the year will be held on Tuesday 20 December.

For further information, call 01325 462559 or email: enquiries@thomaswatson.com