Rarely has Albert Maier been so euphoric: "Now there's real joy. A great object," enthuses the expert when examining a bear sculpture. The three cute little animals were brought by Jacqueline Davenport from Essen. The 68-year-old has shrunk spatially and no longer has the necessary space for the impressive work of art made of solid bronze.

Maier praises the wonderful quality of the object. The execution is great overall. But that's not all. The 73-year-old can hardly be stopped in his enthusiasm: "Now, of course, comes the icing on the cake: a famous artist made it. Anton Büschelberger," he explains. The sculpture dates from between 1890 and 1900, is even signed and has a foundry stamp. Maier describes the condition as "perfect".

But when he hears the customer's desired price, the mood darkens for a moment: Davenport would like 700 euros. "700 is not possible," the art expert blurts out. After a brief moment of silence, he resolves the tension: he estimates the value of the sculpture at 2,000 to 2,500 euros.

Great relief from the seller. "It's a moment where you want to kiss Albert," sighs moderator Horst Lichter. And Maier hasn't finished his eulogy yet: "This is an international work of art," which could just as easily be sold abroad.

But Jacqueline Davenport is not going to New York or Paris, but to the dealership in Pulheim. The bear plastic is also well received there. "It puts you in a good mood," says Waldi happily. "I have a zoo room, they are really good there."

But the bids come from others: Thorsden Schlößner starts with 600 euros. Together with Christian Vechtel, he increases the price in 50 euro increments up to 1500 euros. Wolfgang Pauritsch joins in and bids 1600 - the Austrian has outdone all other competitors. "I promise you, they'll get a great seat," he says in the direction of Davenport. She is happy about the money. And about the fact that the plastic is in good hands.

Source: "Bares for Rares" in the ZDF media library

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