WARNING: This article contains spoilers from Antiques Roadshow.
An Antiques Roadshow guest was left disappointed after being unable to sell a valuable family heirloom. The popular PBS series traveled to Austin, where numerous guests brought in sentimental and valuable items for appraisal. One guest, in particular, sought the expertise of Colleene Fesko. Fesko began by praising the guest’s grandfather, who was an interesting artist. She then discussed a luscious painting by Henry Siddons Mowbray, an artist born in Alexandria, Egypt, in 1858. The owner believed the painting was created in 1895, as it resembled other works by his grandfather from that time.
Fesko further explained that the guest’s grandfather was greatly influenced by classical themes, particularly those of the American Renaissance. The painting featured allegorical figures, muses, and virtues, which were highly regarded by the guest. The guest reminisced about waking up to the painting in their bedroom when they were 16 years old. While the grandfather considered his murals more important, the guest found greater admiration for the easel paintings.
Fesko then delved into the guest’s grandfather’s connections with renowned individuals such as sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens and architectural firm Stanford White, McKim, Mead and White. The guest’s grandfather had worked on design programs for the grand mansions being constructed in Newport and New York during the American Renaissance period. These buildings featured Renaissance-style architecture and interiors, often depicting Roman and classical scenes. Fesko praised the beautiful figures and palette of the painting, considering it a significant accomplishment in the easel format.
Antiques Roadshow has a reputation for uncovering valuable treasures, leaving many British viewers astonished by the worth of items found in their own attics. From a Faberge flower to artwork by Banksy, the show has revealed some of the most expensive antiques ever discovered on the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow.
AMAZING PAINTING VALUED AT UP TO $75,000
In a recent episode of Antiques Roadshow, a stunning painting from the period was appraised by expert Fesko. Describing it as a “terrific example” of the era, Fesko estimated its value at an impressive $50,000 to $75,000 if put up for auction.
The guest’s reaction was one of surprise as he raised his eyebrows at the price. However, his expression quickly turned somber as he admitted that he could never part with the painting. “It would stay in the family,” he said with a hand on his hip.
Despite the guest’s reluctance to sell, Fesko remained upbeat and thanked him for bringing the painting to the show. “Nice to wake up to [nonetheless],” Fesko joked.
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