A picture that was thought near worthless has been confirmed as a £60,000 work by legendary linocut artist Cyril Edward Power.
The rare piece, which was thought by its owner to be worth just £20, had spent 25 years on a garage wall before it was brought to the attention of Toby Wilson, head of automobilia at Bonhams, who immediately recognised it as the work of Power.
The find was soon in the hands of Rupert Worrall, head of prints at Bonhams, who confirmed its authenticity.
Entitled Speed Trial, it is number seven of 60 produced and is based on Sir Malcolm Campbell's record-breaking car Bluebird.
Another example of Power’s work surpassed £90,000 at auction recently.
The image is expected to make £40-60,000 at Bonhams’ Print sale on 20 February.
