The next day, He Wenjie went alone to the pre-arranged location, which was a private villa. The tall white man he had seen before came out to greet him, and after a brief exchange of pleasantries, led him to the collection room. Over the years following Uncle Guan, He Wenjie had learned a great deal about antiques, so at a glance he could tell these pieces were imperial kiln masterpieces, presumably originating from the imperial palace. He used to think that since Chinese antiques didn't fetch high prices back then, hunting for goods abroad would be a breeze. But seeing this now, even overseas, people sold fine Chinese antiques at exorbitant prices.
Among the numerous fine porcelains, He Wenjie spotted an extremely rare treasure: a Rotating Vase made during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty. Operating on the principle of buying only the best, He Wenjie asked, "How much for this one?"
"Are you asking in pounds or US dollars?"
Chapter 504