A painting by 15th century Italian painter Filippino Lippi sold for 255,000 pounds (about 317.500 dollars) at an auction held by Dawsons Auctioneers in the U.K.
The news, according to a report in The Independent, is that the family who sold the painting had no idea it was a valuable painting.
The Renaissance work belonged to a 90-year-old woman who left Italy at an early age, moved to Britain and is now in a care home with dementia. The painting, given to her by her father 30 years ago, was hanging in her unoccupied home.
The oil on canvas, 50 cm x 43.5 cm, depicts the Virgin Mary with the Divine Infant[/B] with attendant angels, in a landscape.
More than 20 collectors from around the world submitted bids, but it was eventually sold to a British buyer.
Auctioneer Peter Mason said: "We had over 20 active bidders a day, but when we got to 100.000 English pounds, there were only two left."
"We knew it would do well, but the final price exceeded our expectations," he added."
The painting was spotted in the house by the auction house's art appraiser, Siobhan Tyrrell, who is part of the BBC's Antiques Roadshow. In the TV programme antiques and art appraisers travel the UK and spot valuable items.
"There was nothing extraordinary in the house until I walked into the bedroom and saw the painting hanging, strangely, over a bed."
"I am not an expert on paintings, however as a general appraiser with over 25 years' experience, I recognised it was a fine 16th century work. I immediately told the family of its potential high value and they wanted me to take it for inclusion in the art auction," she said."
Born in Italy in 1457, Lippi was a pupil of Botticelli.
His fame spread throughout Italy and he painted important series of frescoes in Rome and Florence. He was also a famous altar painter.
Contents of this article including associated images are belongs Cyprus Times
Views & opinions expressed are those of the author and/or Cyprus Times
Source
