That actually happened before when I tried to sell a unique item in Rio. The guy couldn't give me a recommendation. Sad. Never happened to me as a noble though.
As my side not, there seems to be no one left in Rio who wants an item... I asked at least 5 guys, they didn't even care to answer... Ah well. Their loss.
Stop! Halt! I always buy unique items. Nobody just forwarded your message... unless you are Mijail (or something?). Anyway, if you still look to sell it in Rio, I suggest you keep asking around.