A thrift store shopper has revealed his excitement after buying a painting for just $7 that could be worth thousands if it turns out to be an original work by American artist Stan Sobossek.
Unexpected find in the art section
Mark Harrington, an experienced thrifter, was browsing his favorite thrift store when he came across a painting that caught his eye. The artwork depicts a house with a bicycle parked in front, and Harrington was immediately drawn to it. Upon checking the signature, he realized it might be by Sobossek, a mid-20th century oil painter.
Harrington told Newsweek: "Saturday morning, I was at one of my favourite thrift stores. By pure chance, I thumbed through a bin of wall hangings before I left and found the Stan Sobossek painting. The painting caught my eye because the subject was an antique store, and I thought it would make good décor for my hobby space."
Potential value and authenticity
Sobossek, born in New York in 1918, won first prize at the 1955 Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit for his painting 'Mechanic Street, New Hope'. His works have sold for as much as $6,000 at auction, though Harrington estimates his painting could fetch around $2,000 if authenticated.
Harrington added: "I don't believe it's an exhibition piece, which can sell for as much as $6,000 (£4,500). If I had to guess, I'd say the high end would be around $2,000 (£1,500) for my painting. I intend to get it appraised."
Mixed reactions from fellow thrifters
While some questioned the painting's authenticity, others appreciated its aesthetic value regardless. One commenter wrote: "I hope for your sake gets an original, but if it's not, I still absolutely love this painting.
Tips for spotting valuable art
- Check if it's an original or print; originals may have visible brushstrokes and texture.
- Look for edition marks like '25/150' to indicate limited editions.
- Check for hand-signed pieces and artist's proof marks.
- Look for gallery labels or auction house tags that provide history.
- Consider condition; mold, tears, or sun fading reduce value.
