A Rare Discovery on Antiques Roadshow
An episode of the popular BBC show Antiques Roadshow from 2016 has recently resurfaced, revealing a remarkable story that left experts and viewers alike in awe. The segment, which took place at Scarborough Grand Spa Hall on the North Yorkshire coast, featured presenter Fiona Bruce and a team of specialists who were tasked with evaluating various family heirlooms and heritage items.
Among the many items brought in, one particular object caught the attention of Ronnie Archer Morgan, an expert in tribal art and weaponry. He was presented with a Polynesian club-like weapon that he described as “absolutely superb” and unlike anything he had encountered on the show before. This rare item turned out to be worth a life-changing sum, making it one of the most significant discoveries in the history of the program.
Ronnie, known for his deep knowledge and passion for tribal artifacts, was immediately struck by the quality of the piece. The guest, a woman who had brought the item for appraisal, explained that it belonged to her father, who had acquired it from some elderly spinster ladies. While the origins of the weapon were unclear, its craftsmanship and design spoke volumes.
The club, identified as a Fijian Bulibuli, is a traditional weapon used for caving in skulls. It features a long handle with a rounded head and decorative circles, all intricately carved. What made this particular piece so special was the unique chip-carved iron wood used in its construction. Unlike other similar clubs, this one had carvings that extended all the way down the shaft, a feature that Ronnie had never seen before.
He emphasized the historical significance of the item, noting that the color and design were not just aesthetic but also symbolic. “The color would have been as important to the owner as the color of someone’s tie today,” he explained. “It said who the tribesman was. It’s a prestige object as well as a weapon.”
Ronnie also pointed out that the size of the club was unusual. Typically, such weapons are shorter, but this one was significantly longer than average. His excitement about the discovery was palpable, and he couldn’t help but express his astonishment: “It just takes my breath away. I’m really beside myself with excitement.”
When it came time for the valuation, Ronnie estimated that the item could fetch between £30,000 and £35,000 if purchased from a specialist market like Sablon in Brussels. The guest was visibly shocked by the figure, but Ronnie was not done. He continued to praise the rarity and value of the piece, calling it the best he had ever seen.
This discovery was not the only highlight of the episode. Another guest had a similar experience when they found an archive collection of vibrant fabrics created by pioneering artist Althea McNish. The man, who had acquired the items from builders throwing things away, was astonished to learn that the collection was worth over £250,000.
Althea McNish, a Trinidadian-born designer who moved to the UK in 1951, was celebrated for bringing the colors and vibrancy of the Caribbean to post-war Britain. Her work included designing Queen Elizabeth II’s wardrobe for her royal visit to Trinidad, and she left a lasting legacy in the world of textiles.
Ronnie praised her contributions, calling her “the most influential post-war textile designer that Britain has seen.” The guest, clearly overwhelmed by the revelation, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn more about the artist and her work.
Antiques Roadshow continues to captivate audiences with its mix of history, culture, and unexpected discoveries. Whether it’s a rare tribal weapon or a collection of vibrant fabrics, each episode offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of heritage and artistry that defines our shared past.
