Antique Carved Ivory Puzzle Ball Price
What is an Antique Carved Ivory Puzzle Ball?
An antique carved ivory puzzle ball is a type of Chinese puzzle ball made of ivory which consists of several concentric spheres that can be rotated independently. The outer layer of the ball is carved with intricate designs and the inner layers are carved with similar designs but with increasing complexity as you move towards the center of the ball.
Why are Antique Carved Ivory Puzzle Balls Valuable?
Antique carved ivory puzzle balls are valuable because they are rare and difficult to make. Each ball is a unique work of art that requires a high level of skill and precision to create. Additionally, the use of ivory in the creation of these puzzle balls has led to a decrease in their availability due to the global ban on ivory trade.
Factors That Affect the Price of Antique Carved Ivory Puzzle Balls
The price of antique carved ivory puzzle balls is affected by several factors, including:
- Age - The older the puzzle ball, the more valuable it is.
- Condition - The better the condition of the puzzle ball, the higher its value.
- Size - Larger puzzle balls tend to be more valuable than smaller ones.
- Complexity - Puzzle balls with more intricate designs and more layers are more valuable than simpler ones.
- Provenance - Puzzle balls with a known history of ownership by famous collectors or museums may be more valuable.
Prices of Antique Carved Ivory Puzzle Balls
The prices of antique carved ivory puzzle balls vary widely depending on the factors listed above. Some puzzle balls may sell for a few thousand dollars, while others may sell for hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.
For example, a 19th-century Chinese carved ivory puzzle ball sold at Christie's in 2017 for over $1.5 million. This puzzle ball was 11 inches in diameter and had 14 layers of intricately carved spheres.
How to Buy an Antique Carved Ivory Puzzle Ball
If you are interested in purchasing an antique carved ivory puzzle ball, it is important to do your research and buy from a reputable dealer. Due to the global ban on ivory trade, it is also essential to ensure that the puzzle ball you are purchasing is legal and does not violate any regulations.
Be prepared to spend a significant amount of money if you want to purchase an antique carved ivory puzzle ball. These pieces are rare and valuable, and you should expect to pay accordingly.
Conclusion
Antique carved ivory puzzle balls are beautiful and fascinating works of art that have been prized for centuries. They are rare and valuable, and their prices reflect their unique status in the world of art and antiques.
