Additional Coverage:
- ‘Antiques Roadshow’ guest struggled to breathe after expert revealed the value of his painting (marketrealist.com)
Stunned “Antiques Roadshow” Guest Gasps as Hockney Painting Deemed Authentic
A recent episode of “Antiques Roadshow” delivered a moment of breathtaking surprise when a guest presented a painting he believed to be by renowned British artist David Hockney. Initially skeptical, expert Rupert Maas ultimately declared the artwork authentic, leaving the guest speechless.
The guest recounted a charming family story of his grandfather, a railway signalman, who befriended two young artists in 1957. Inviting them for tea and later a Sunday brunch, the grandfather purchased a painting from each artist, one of whom was Hockney.
The guest’s evidence? A newspaper clipping announcing Hockney’s gold medal win from the Royal College of Art.
Maas admitted his initial doubts, stating that the painting’s style was unlike Hockney’s usual work. However, research corroborated the guest’s story, confirming Hockney’s presence in the area with fellow student John Loker. The pair were reportedly admirers of landscape painter John Constable and were visiting the region for artistic inspiration.
Describing the painting as “almost juvenilia,” Maas noted its pre-abstract expressionism style and “wobbly signature.” The guest explained the painting’s rough framing, a result of his mother’s attempt to fit it into an existing frame.
When asked for his estimation of the painting’s value, the guest suggested £10,000 (approximately $12,900). Maas, however, delivered a stunning appraisal of £20,000-£30,000 (approximately $25,000 to $38,000).
The guest was visibly stunned, bending over in disbelief as a bystander urged him to simply “say thank you.” He did, managing a grateful smile.
Maas emphasized Hockney’s global recognition and explained that the painting’s unusual style had initially prompted his skepticism. This unexpected discovery proved to be a highlight of the “Antiques Roadshow” episode, demonstrating the enduring power of art and the fascinating stories that often accompany treasured possessions.