However, around 2006, demand began to rise and today, about 30% of all our overseas shipments are going to Asian countries, with Singapore, Korea leading the pack, closely followed by Australia. (Is Australia Asia? How about Australasia? That's better.)
Anywho, this article is of interest because:
"Some observers put the gain in pieces typically bought by investors at closer to 12%."
This is higher than our recent calculations, but our figures have been skewed by recent liquidations. What is certain is that Asian buyers have deep pockets and a sense of rarity that is seldom found amongst more sophisticated buyers in Europe.
The other factor I feel is driving demand is Mao's Cultural Revolution.
Huge amounts of Chinese antiques were destroyed, and now, Chinese buyers are securing top class rarities from Europe and the USA.
Revenge, as they say, is a dish best served cold.
