A painting bought for just R500 in a South African second-hand shop has been revealed to be worth over R400,000, turning a forgotten treasure into a life-changing discovery on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow.
United Kingdom (27 September 2024) – Sometimes life offers surprises that are beyond our wildest imaginations, and for one man, a chance encounter at a curio shop in South Africa has turned into a life-changing moment!
In a heartwarming episode of BBC’s Antiques Roadshow, a man discovered that a painting he bought in South Africa for just R500 over 30 years ago is now valued at an eye-popping amount of up to R415,000!
Antiques Roadshow is a beloved British television programme in which everyday people bring in their prized possessions to be evaluated by experts. The show has been running for 47 series, and it’s known for moments that leave guests speechless with joy—and this was certainly one of them!
The latest series kicked off with a story that’s got everyone buzzing. The first guest featured on the show’s new season shared a story of how he stumbled upon a painting in a South African second-hand shop in 1988. Back then, it seemed like a modest but captivating piece – a painting of a thoughtful young man against a tawny background, signed by Frans David Oerder.
Little did he know that this simple purchase would one day be worth between £12,000 and £18,000, which converts to a staggering R275,000 to R415,000 today!
“As soon as I saw him [the painting], I thought, I have to have it,” the guest fondly recalled. “[I was drawn] to its simplicity, how it captured the essence of a person, and the colours are also lovely.”
Oerder was a Dutch-born artist who emigrated to South Africa in 1890, bringing with him a wealth of classical training from his time in Rotterdam. Known primarily for his still-life paintings, Oerder became one of the very few professionally trained artists in South Africa during that era. His work, though often focused on everyday objects, carried a distinct touch of realism and emotional depth, making him a respected figure in the local art scene. This rare portrait showcases his ability to capture the subtleties of human expression, a departure from his usual still-life works.
Frances Christie, the Antiques Roadshow’s expert in fine art, was equally mesmerised by the painting. She explained that this portrait of a young man revealed a depth of skill and emotion that captivated her.
“He’s managed to capture the very subtle facial features and thoughtfulness of this boy beautifully,” Christie said, praising the artist’s ability to make the portrait look effortless despite the challenges of oil painting.
The guest was absolutely stunned by the valuation.
“Really? That’s amazing, I had no idea. Thank you so much, that’s so fascinating.”
The emotional moment was filmed at Pitzhanger Manor and Gallery in Ealing, West London, the former country home of neoclassical architect Sir John Soane. The painting’s appraisal aired on 15th September, leaving viewers amazed by the unlikely story.
The Antiques Roadshow has a way of showing us that treasures can be found in the most unexpected places, and this story is the perfect reminder that sometimes, the true value of something – or someone – is hidden until the right moment reveals it. For one lucky art enthusiast, a trip down memory lane brought an unimaginable fortune, and we can’t help but celebrate this joyful discovery!
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