Incredible Find: Lost Salvador Dalí Painting Discovered at Auction for £150

In a remarkable twist of fortune, an avid art auction attendee recently acquired a bewildering treasure: a lost original painting by the renowned artist Salvador Dalí, all for the astonishing price of just £150. This mixed-media artwork, titled Vecchio Sultano (Old Sultan), was created in 1966 as part of a grand commission for illustrations inspired by The Arabian Nights. The piece has now taken on a new significance, poised for resale valued at up to 200 times its purchase price.

The Journey of Vecchio Sultano

Originally commissioned by an Italian couple, Giuseppe and Mara Albaretto, the project involved Dalí producing 500 illustrations, of which only 100 were completed before he abandoned the endeavor. The pieces that remained with the Albarettos are now rumored to be lost, making Russell's recent find all the more extraordinary.

Discovery at Auction

The painting was discovered in a London apartment during an in-person auction, where John Russell, an antiquities dealer well-versed in the art world, spotted its potential. His instincts were honed after years of watching the popular television show Fake or Fortune, which gave him confidence in identifying forgeries. The quiet auction atmosphere allowed him to make his move without fierce competition, taking home what he believed to be an original piece.

Validation of Authenticity

Following his purchase, Russell conducted thorough investigations, including acquiring the Sotheby’s auction catalog, which verified that the painting had indeed been authenticated by a respected Dalí scholar in the past. This not only confirms the artwork’s original status but also its burgeoning value anticipated to reach between $25,000 and $37,000.

This captivating story of art recovery serves as a reminder of the hidden gems that may lie within overlooked places, awaiting discovery by those with an eye for beauty and history. The world of art continues to enchant, reminding us that treasures can surface unexpectedly, bringing with them stories from the past that resonate into the present.