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So......here's my try at the vase.  I lightened the texture in Photoshop but something is amiss. Mine doesn't look like Paolo's.  I used subdivision 1 as well.  It looks like he got the expensive vase and I got the cheap knock off.   Help please? 

Xandi.. too me.. it looks to be a case of lighting and exposure.  Paolo's lights are very subtle and seem positioned to get the most out of the texture and its reflectivity.  I'd try your render again; but, halve the exposure and see what you get.

 

Sharkie

P.S. the above advice was given with the caveat that I suck at lighting and am constantly fiddling with the exposure in my renders until they look nice to me.