A Chinese vase discovered in a battered shoebox stuffed in an attic in France is set to be the star of a Sotheby's auction next month.
Experts have identified the find as an exquisite porcelain vessel made for the 18th century Qing dynasty Emperor Qianlong and the guide price for its auction on June 12 starts at a modest 500,000 euros ($590,000).
It was found by chance among dozens of other pieces of Chinoiserie.
It is also said to be in perfect condition.
The only other similar vase that has come to light, though without the cranes, is in the Guimet museum of Asiatic arts in Paris.