In a remarkable tale that seems almost as surreal as the artist's own work, a long-lost painting by Salvador Dali has emerged from obscurity to sell for an astonishing £47,700 at auction.
The artwork, which had been quietly stored in a Scottish home for decades, was originally purchased for a mere £150 in the late 20th century. The current owners, who inherited the piece, had little idea of its true value until they decided to have it professionally assessed.
The Unexpected Discovery
Experts at Lyon & Turnbull auction house in Edinburgh were stunned when the painting was brought to their attention. The work, measuring approximately 20cm by 15cm, features Dali's characteristic surrealist style with his distinctive signature clearly visible.
"It's not every day that a genuine Dali walks through the door," said the auction house specialist. "The family had lived with this painting for years, completely unaware of its significance in the art world."
Auction Room Drama
When the painting went under the hammer, bidding was fierce and competitive. The final selling price of £47,700 far exceeded pre-auction estimates, reflecting the ongoing strong demand for works by the Spanish surrealist master.
The discovery highlights how important works of art can remain hidden in private collections, sometimes for generations, before being rediscovered and properly valued.
Provenance and Authenticity
Before the auction, the painting underwent rigorous authentication processes to confirm it was indeed by Dali. The work's provenance was traced back to its original purchase in the late 20th century, though many details of its earlier history remain mysterious.
"This discovery serves as a reminder to everyone who might have interesting old artworks in their homes," the auction expert noted. "You never know what treasures might be hiding in plain sight."
The new owner, who wishes to remain anonymous, now possesses not just a valuable piece of art history, but also a fascinating story of rediscovery that adds to the painting's unique character and appeal.
