In a serendipitous discovery at one of Europe’s largest flea markets, a painting purchased for a mere £34 (40 euros) by Kate Pottage from Cherry Burton, East Yorkshire, is set to fetch thousands at auction.
What began as a spontaneous visit to the bustling streets of Amiens in April turned into a remarkable find when Ms. Pottage stumbled upon the artwork lying on the pavement.
“It wasn’t what we were looking for at all,” Ms. Pottage recalled, reflecting on the night they arrived in Amiens just after midnight, eager to explore the renowned flea market.
“But there was something about this picture,” she added, describing its initial allure under the beam of her torch. Unaware of its true value until she returned home, Ms. Pottage was astonished to discover that the painting bore the signature of 20th-century British artist Patrick Heron (1920-1999).
Known for his influential contributions to post-war British art, Heron’s abstract works routinely command high prices in the art market. The painting, dated to 1959 and reflecting Heron’s early exploration into abstraction, has been appraised with an estimated value between £8,000 to £10,000.
Coralie Thomson, an art specialist at Duggleby Stephenson preparing the auction at York Auction Centre in Murton, described the find as “wonderful” and “absolutely astonishing.”
“It is a fascinating picture by a great artist,” Thomson remarked, noting the painting’s atmospheric composition of subdued tones, characteristic of Heron’s stylistic evolution during that period. “The backstory behind its discovery,” Thomson added, “is surely almost impossible to beat.”
Patrick Heron’s legacy in the art world is profound, marked by his bold exploration of color and form. His works, celebrated for their vibrant abstraction and innovative approach, continue to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.
For Ms. Pottage and her husband, Mark, the journey from chance discovery to anticipated auction has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Their decision to venture into the early morning hunt at Amiens, guided by curiosity rather than a specific agenda, has yielded a remarkable return.
As the painting prepares to go under the hammer, all eyes are on the outcome of this unexpected treasure unearthed from the bustling pavements of a French flea market.
For Ms. Pottage, it serves as a testament to the unpredictable allure of such gatherings and the enduring value hidden within overlooked corners of everyday life.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
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