An Antiques Roadshow guest was utterly astonished when his late father's remarkable historical piece was valued at a jaw-dropping tens of thousands of pounds.

During a rerun this week, the BBC show visited Lytham Hall in Lancashire, uncovering some truly intriguing family heirlooms and artefacts.

Jon Baddeley, a specialist on the programme, was enthralled by a 130-year-old automaton of a female snake charmer who danced and played music, enchanting dinner party attendees.

“It was made in Paris at the end of the 19th Century by a company named Roullet-Decamps,” he explained.

“She was obviously called the Snake Charmer. How has it come into your possession?”, reports the Mirror.

The item's owner explained that the mechanical entertainer was a part of his father's collection of antiques, which he began to amass after retiring.

“He's sadly passed away,” the owner confided. “When he retired he decided to collect things like this.

“It's one of his prized possessions, yeah,” he confirmed, answering Jon's question. “He had two, this one and the Cambodian Dancer.”

Jon went on to say that these automatons were never meant for children's play.

“They were made to entertain adults,” he pointed out. “You can imagine yourself at a dinner party in Paris in the 1890s. You would have had your dinner and then you might have retreated to smoke your cigars and have your brandies.

“And there would be something like this. And it would mean they're simulating reality.”

Jon was absolutely captivated by the rarity and intricacy of a particular automaton on the show, suggesting it might have been modelled after a real-life snake charmer, with possibly only 15 left in existence.

He was fascinated by its unique features as a fully-formed figure, even hinting that it may have been designed to perform without clothes originally.

The crowd was spellbound when the owner demonstrated that the piece was still functional, watching in awe as Jon activated the mechanism, causing the figure to serenade and sway with her trumpet and serpent.

Jon couldn't get over the detailed craftsmanship, from the way the automaton's chest appeared to breathe to the delicate fluttering of her eyelashes.

“It ticks a lot of boxes,” Jon said excitedly. “It's probably one of the rarest automatons ever known. It's all original, it's in fantastic condition.”

However, he tempered expectations about its value, noting that market prices aren't what they used to be.

“But, if you were to sell it at auction today, you'd be looking at somewhere between... well, £60-80,000.”

The guest was astounded by the valuation, barely able to utter, “Really?”

Overcome with joy, he laughed and thanked Jon profusely after hearing the staggering estimate, exclaiming, “Fabulous. Thank you very much.”

Antiques Roadshow: A Treasure Trove of History and Value

Antiques Roadshow, a beloved BBC programme, has long captivated audiences with its exploration of hidden treasures and their fascinating stories. From rare family heirlooms to everyday objects with unexpected worth, the show continues to reveal the rich tapestry of history and value that can be found in our homes.

The Power of Appraisal

The expert appraisers on Antiques Roadshow are not only knowledgeable about the historical significance of items but also possess a keen understanding of the current market. They are able to provide insights into the provenance of objects, their rarity, and their potential value. This expertise allows the programme to provide a unique window into the world of collecting and the evolution of taste over time.

The Snake Charmer: A Rare and Valuable Piece of History

The automaton of the female snake charmer, as highlighted in this week's episode, is a testament to the artistry and ingenuity of the past. Its intricate design, delicate movements, and historical significance make it a truly remarkable piece. The valuation provided by Jon Baddeley underscores the importance of this item, both in terms of its monetary worth and its cultural heritage.

The Legacy of Antiques Roadshow

Antiques Roadshow continues to be a source of both entertainment and education, reminding viewers of the hidden stories and value that can be found in everyday objects. As the programme explores the world of antiques and collectibles, it invites us to appreciate the past and to recognize the treasures that may be found in our own homes. The snake charmer automaton is just one example of the many extraordinary objects that have been brought to the show, each with its own unique tale to tell.

The show has fostered a sense of wonder and appreciation for the past, encouraging viewers to explore the history that surrounds them and to discover the hidden gems that may be tucked away in their own homes. It is a testament to the power of discovery and the enduring appeal of the world of antiques.