On the latest episode of Fake or Fortune, retired accountant Mary-Louise Wedderburn discovered that a painting she inherited from her late uncle was a genuine work by 18th-century Scottish artist Katherine Read – and worth upwards of £100,000.
Wedderburn believed the painting, which depicts an elegantly dressed Indian woman, was by Read, a distant relative best known for portraiture. The BBC series team investigated the artwork, with art historian Charles Greig initially doubtful.
Expert verdict and historical significance
At the episode's end, host Fiona Bruce joined Wedderburn to hear the final verdict from Greig and art dealer Philip Mould. Greig said: 'Well, let me start by saying this has been one of the trickiest paintings I've ever had to consider. I've read your dossier very carefully, and it's incredibly impressive.' He concluded: 'On the basis of all the evidence put together, I am entirely certain that this painting is by Katherine Read.'
Wedderburn reacted: 'Oh gosh! That's just wonderful! Oh gosh!' Greig noted the painting is the first recorded portrait of an Indian by a European woman artist, calling it 'extraordinarily important'. He said the subject was likely a member of the Nawabs family in Madras.
Value and future plans
Mould revealed the painting's value: 'So therefore we're looking at £100,000 upwards.' Wedderburn said the amount 'makes it a bigger responsibility than it was before', adding she has no intention of selling it. 'The sooner she is somewhere safe as well as public, then I think the better,' she said.
Viewers praised the discovery on social media. 'I can honestly say I haven't been so drawn in (pardon the pun) by a programme in a very long time. Well done, #BBC,' wrote one user.
