Additional Coverage:
- ‘Antiques Roadshow’ guest’s family heirloom from the 19th century gets an incredible appraisal (marketrealist.com)
A treasured family heirloom, a painting passed down through five generations since 1836, recently made an appearance on “Antiques Roadshow.” The owner, enthusiastic about the artwork’s history, shared the story of his ancestors, William Floss and Polly, who are believed to be the subjects of the piece and are even buried on the family property. A previous appraisal in 1975 valued the painting at $5,000, but the owner seemed to anticipate a much higher valuation this time around.
Appraiser Nancy Druckman was captivated by the family lore surrounding the painting, but emphasized the artwork’s inherent value. She highlighted the skillful use of lines and patterns, and pointed out a unique detail: a painting within the painting depicting a blacksmith crafting a wagon wheel. Druckman declared it the only such image of a blacksmith’s shop she’d encountered in her 30-year career.
The owner’s confidence proved justified when Druckman estimated the painting’s auction value between $40,000 and $50,000, with the potential to reach even higher depending on market conditions.
“Antiques Roadshow” also featured a more contemporary piece with a fascinating story. A guest brought in a Batman painting by Leslie Thomas, an artist who worked on the 1966 “Batman” film.
The painting depicts a lively, somewhat embellished scene from the movie. Appraiser Laura Wooley commented on the artistic liberties taken in portraying the scene, noting the depiction of revelry.
The owner, having purchased the painting for $1,000, was astonished by Wooley’s appraisal of $6,000 to $8,000, with the potential to exceed that amount. Wooley attributed the high value to the growing popularity of Batman collectibles, particularly those associated with Adam West’s iconic portrayal.