AN ANTIQUES Roadshow guest was left shocked when he discovered the jaw-dropping value of an ancient Indian painting he had purchased many years ago.
During a recent episode of the popular television show, the gentlemen was astounded when he learned the eye-watering value of his item.
It was a portrait by Francis Newton Souza, a famous Indian-American-British artist who’s work was a mix of luxury and primitiveness.
The artwork was of a mystery man from Indian history in 1961.
The artist utilised knives to sketch out the man’s beard in the painting, which was exquisitely sculpted.
The guest said that he used to attend to school with the artist’s daughters.
He and his mother bought the painting in 1970 for just £50.
Presenter Francis Christie examined the item thoroughly and commented on how “striking” the image was, adding that the guest was “lucky” to have gotten his hands on one of the artist’s portraits.
The expert continued: “He[ the artist] really was one of the most avant-garde artists working in London in the 50s.”
She added: “So, if this was to come up to auction today we would probably put an estimate in the region of £7000-£10,000.”
The guest looked stunned, and replied: “Ok. Right. Lovely.”
Francis smiled at the guest and reminded him of just how lucky he was.
