Budapest, Hungary – A cherished family heirloom took center stage on Saturday’s episode of Kincsvadászok VIP (VIP Treasure Hunters), as Hungarian actress Szulák Andrea bravely parted ways with a stunning, century-old chandelier that held deep personal significance. The emotional sale, broadcast on TV2, highlighted the challenges of assigning monetary value to objects steeped in history and personal memories, and ultimately raised funds for a charitable cause.
The chandelier, a striking example of early 20th-century design, wasn’t simply a decorative piece for Szulák; it was a tangible link to her family’s past. As she explained on the program, the fixture had been in the possession of her mother since before her birth, entrusted to her care by neighbors who fled Hungary in 1956 following the Hungarian Revolution. This poignant backstory added considerable weight to the decision to sell, forcing Szulák to confront the complexities of letting go of a symbol of her heritage.
A Family History Illuminated
The story of the chandelier is inextricably linked to the turbulent history of post-war Hungary. In 1956, a wave of emigration swept across the country in the wake of the failed uprising against Soviet rule. Many families, fearing for their future, made the difficult choice to leave their homes and possessions behind, entrusting them to neighbors with the hope of eventual return. Szulák’s mother became the custodian of these abandoned belongings, including the ornate chandelier. According to Szulák, the family who left never returned, and the chandelier remained in her mother’s care, eventually finding a place of honor in Szulák’s childhood home.
“This chandelier has been with me practically since childhood,” Szulák stated during the show. “It no longer serves a real function in my life, and I think that, sooner or later – no matter how much emotional weight it carries – I need to be able to let go of these things. It’s perhaps a lesson for me, or a task. And if it can be useful to others, that means even more to me.” This sentiment underscores a growing trend of decluttering and mindful consumption, where individuals are re-evaluating the emotional attachments to material possessions.
Expert Appraisal and Initial Expectations
The chandelier’s design was quickly identified by expert appraiser Megyesi Balázs as a classic piece from the Austro-Hungarian period. He described it as a 100-120 year old, copper-based, Art Nouveau (szecessziós) piece, typical of those found in Budapest homes of the era. However, Megyesi noted that the large glass shade, likely of Viennese origin, was particularly noteworthy and potentially more valuable than initially assumed. The combination of the Hungarian history and the potential Austrian craftsmanship added layers of intrigue to the appraisal process.
Szulák initially approached the sale with a hopeful, yet realistic, outlook. She openly stated her intention to donate the proceeds to charity, removing any personal financial incentive from the transaction. When pressed by show host Till Attila to reveal her “dream price,” Szulák hesitantly suggested 500,000 Hungarian Forint (approximately €1,280 / $1,380 USD as of March 15, 2026). This figure, however, prompted a burst of laughter from Attila, signaling a significant disconnect between her expectations and the likely market value.
A Discrepancy in Value and a Successful Sale
Megyesi Balázs quickly tempered expectations, pointing out that while the chandelier was a lovely and historically interesting piece, similar items were relatively common during that period. He similarly identified a minor flaw in one of the glass shades, further impacting its value. His assessment placed the chandelier’s worth in the range of 60,000 to 80,000 Hungarian Forint (€153 – €204 / $165 – $220 USD). Szulák expressed some disappointment at the lower valuation, but remained committed to the sale and her charitable intentions.
The auction ultimately saw Dr. Katona Szandra emerge as the winning bidder with an initial offer of 55,000 Forint. However, Szulák, demonstrating a surprising negotiating skill, successfully persuaded the buyer to increase the final price to 75,000 Forint (€192 / $207 USD). This small victory highlighted Szulák’s determination to maximize the donation amount, even while acknowledging her lack of experience in bargaining.
The sale of the chandelier on Kincsvadászok VIP serves as a compelling example of how personal history and material objects intersect. It also underscores the importance of charitable giving and the power of letting go of possessions to benefit others. The program, which continues to draw a significant audience, provides a platform for celebrities to connect with their past and contribute to worthy causes.
The success of this particular segment, and the show hinges on the emotional connection viewers feel with the celebrities and their stories. Szulák Andrea’s willingness to part with a cherished heirloom, coupled with her commitment to donating the proceeds, resonated with audiences and generated positive attention for both the program and the chosen charity.
Kincsvadászok VIP is expected to continue airing new episodes on TV2, featuring other Hungarian celebrities and their treasured possessions. The show’s format, combining elements of antiques appraisal, personal storytelling, and charitable giving, has proven to be a winning formula for attracting viewers and generating positive social impact.
The next episode of Kincsvadászok VIP, scheduled to air on March 23rd, will feature actress Balázs Andrea and a childhood sculpture. Viewers can tune in to TV2 to witness another emotional journey and discover the stories behind treasured possessions. For more information about the show and upcoming episodes, visit the TV2 website: https://tv2play.hu/kincsvadaszokvip.
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