Amsterdam antique dealer Aronson has created a digital rendered version of a Delftware tulip vase made in the 17th century and hopes to sell it as an NFT.
NFT is digital art that includes videos, music, images and drawings. Each NFT is unique and its owners own the copyright to ensure that the art cannot be copied. The copyright owner is secured by blockchain technology that is similar to the system that allows bitcoin currency to be held and traded.
Antique dealer Robert Aronson claims that this is the first time that a digital representation of an antique has been sold as an NFT.
The original vase was rendered using 3D-software technology. It’s not an exact replica as it has been altered with a reference to the lockdown in red letters which say:
“How much longer?”
The image is titled Locked Down and is being auctioned. The reserve price is £1300, which is a lot cheaper than buying a Delftware vase, but some may think that it is a lot to pay for a virtual antique. The original Delftware vase is on sale for £107,000.
It is doubtful whether Lancashire antique buyers would settle for a virtual copy of antiques, even if the price is considerably less than the real thing. Fortunately, there are plenty of genuine antiques, including antique chairs, cupboards and chests for sale by Lancashire antique dealers. You don’t need a smartphone or laptop to enjoy real antiques, simply place in your home and admire.