Picking up a rare find relies on more than just luck; one must act decisively when the opportunity arises. If you hesitate, such a chance might never surface again.

Gao Dequan sighed in admiration but quickly composed himself. While admiring the pale celadon bowl, he remarked, "This piece is truly exceptional. It’s rare to see something this exquisite in recent years. Moreover, being a work by Tang Ying elevates its significance immensely."

"Manager Gao means that this 'Muzhai Jushi' is Tang Ying himself?" At this point, Wang Guan realized the significance of the name Gao Dequan had mentioned twice. The numbed joy he felt suddenly surged back to life.

For anyone living in the Porcelain Capital or acquainted with ceramic culture, Tang Ying was hardly an unknown figure.

At the very least, Wang Guan knew who Tang Ying was, thanks to the antique books piled by his bedside. He was the most famous Imperial Kiln Supervisor during the reigns of Emperor Yongzheng and Qianlong in the Qing Dynasty, serving for nearly thirty years and overseeing the firing of porcelain for both emperors.

Because he diligently researched ceramic matters and was hands-on in practice, he accumulated vast experience in porcelain making. Every piece fired under his supervision was exquisite, earning high praise from both reigning emperors.

During his tenure, he made indelible contributions to the creation and innovation of porcelain. In ceramic history, the wares produced in Jingdezhen under his supervision are collectively known as the 'Tang Kiln.' Naming the era after him underscores the high regard people held for Tang Ying. It was precisely under his watch that Qing Dynasty ceramics reached their zenith. After him, the industry began its slow decline.

"If not him, then who?" Gao Dequan shook his head. "That's why one must read details carefully. The world knows Tang Ying's courtesy name was Jungong, but they often forget he possessed numerous other sobriquets, such as Jungong, Shuzi, Wojijushi, Woji Laoren, Taocheng Jushi, Muzhai Jushi, Taoren, Que Tao Shizhe, and others."

"These inscriptions cannot be overlooked. Forgetting even one can lead to a massive loss."

Gao Dequan held the small bowl, deeply affected. "If I am not mistaken, this celadon bowl with its entwined lotus pattern is one Tang Ying personally crafted for his own use, which is why it bears the inscription 'Muzhai Jushi.'"

"As the story goes, Tang Ying arrived in the Porcelain Capital as the Imperial Kiln Supervisor when he was already over fifty. He supposedly knew nothing about ceramics. Yet, upon taking office, he moved into the kiln compound, living and eating alongside the craftsmen, starting his learning from the very first process. Within a year, he not only mastered the firing techniques but also absorbed the best practices of others, inventing numerous new ceramic styles, even instructing the artisans in return."

"Looking at this small bowl, one can truly gauge the level of Tang Ying's ceramic artistry," Gao Dequan expressed deep reverence. "No wonder Elder Qian once praised the official and private kilns of the Porcelain Capital, declaring the Tang Kiln to be supreme."

"Right."

Gao Dequan suddenly remembered something and immediately waved his hand. "Pack up, we're leaving."

"Where are we going?"

Wang Guan was momentarily stunned, not grasping Gao Dequan's intention.

"To visit Elder Qian, of course," Gao Dequan replied. He took a brocade box, gently placed the celadon bowl inside, quickly locked the doors of Jigu Zhai, and brought his luxury sedan around.

Wang Guan snapped out of his daze and quickly scrambled into the front passenger seat when prompted by Gao Dequan's call.

"Manager Gao, Jigu Zhai..."

Once in the car, Wang Guan couldn't help but remark, "The shop just opened this morning and now it's closed. Isn't that a bit inappropriate?"

"It's fine. It's the slow season anyway; I doubt anyone would be stopping by," Gao Dequan said calmly. "Besides, if any serious business comes along, someone will contact me."

Wang Guan nodded, saying no more. After all, he was still largely ignorant of the subtle customs of the antique trade. If Gao Dequan wasn't worried, why should he be?

The sedan moved smoothly and quickly. After about ten minutes, Wang Guan noticed they were heading toward the outskirts. Soon, they left the urban area and drove for a while longer before arriving at a high-end villa community.

Wang Guan had heard of this area but had never been here. Legend had it that only the extremely wealthy and influential resided here—people whose social standing matched their multi-millionaire status could even dream of living within its gates.

Although Wang Guan usually maintained a healthy skepticism toward such legends, seeing the vehicle pass through multiple security checkpoints before slowly entering the estate made him lean toward believing the stories.

After a series of winding turns, the car stopped before a grand, stately courtyard. Under Gao Dequan's direction, Wang Guan got out and looked around. He immediately noticed the lush, dense greenery, the incredibly fresh air, and the occasional crisp chirping of birds—a scene of profound tranquility, vitality, and harmony.

In that moment, Wang Guan felt a sense of realization: this must be the legendary sanctuary for cultivating well-being. Living in such an environment felt like escaping the mundane world, a place not only to nurture the body and mind but also to extend one's life.

"Ding-dong!"

Just as Wang Guan was lost in thought, Gao Dequan pressed the doorbell.

"Uncle De, you've arrived."

A moment later, a robust young man with a firm, resolute face emerged from the courtyard. Seeing Gao Dequan, he broke into a smile and casually opened the gate.

"Is the Old Master home?" Gao Dequan stepped inside, pointing toward a vehicle parked nearby. "It seems there are guests. Judging by the car, it looks like Yu Feibai's little fellow is here."

"Uncle De has sharp eyes," the sturdy youth laughed. "It is him. I don't know where he found a couple of pieces, but he asked the Old Master to offer an appraisal."

"Appraisal, my foot, he’s clearly here to use connections," Gao Dequan chuckled, chiding him lightly. "Trying to use the Old Master for business! Isn't he afraid his own father will skin him alive if he finds out?"

While Gao Dequan and the robust youth conversed, Wang Guan remained silent, simply following behind and listening.

This 'using connections' (lā xiān) referred to the intermediary, the matchmaker, who links buyers and sellers. If a transaction concludes, the intermediary collects a commission, usually 3% from the seller and 2% from the buyer—colloquially known as 'cheng san po er.'

Wang Guan wasn't sure what relationship Yu Feibai had with Elder Qian, but he could tell their acquaintance was quite close, otherwise, Yu Feibai wouldn't be so brazenly visiting to push a deal, and Elder Qian wouldn't be amenable to it.

While paying close attention to the conversation, Wang Guan was also amazed to find this courtyard even more secluded and elegant than he had imagined. Along the path, cobblestones formed a walkway bordered by various flowers and trees.

Partially obscured by the dense foliage were layers of ancient, naturally rustic, yet incredibly intricate architecture. Even with just a glimpse, Wang Guan knew these structures weren't just delicate; their interior decorations were likely even more opulent.

After walking a short distance further, the view suddenly opened up, revealing first and foremost a pond. Within the pond stood a rockery, from which a waterfall of brilliant white cascaded down like a curtain.

In the water, vibrantly colored goldfish swam leisurely, stretching their bodies. By the bank, weeping willows swayed gently in the breeze, their branches occasionally dipping into the pond water, sending shimmering droplets scattering that sparkled with the brilliance of pearls—dazzling and eye-catching.

At this moment, Wang Guan finally understood what constituted true wealth and nobility.

................. New book, seeking collections and recommendations. Please offer your support.