Hidden still life by George Leslie Hunter discovered at Bonhams
- A still life painting by George Leslie Hunter was discovered hidden on the reverse of a portrait he painted around 1930.
- The portrait, depicting businessman John Ressich, has been in his family for nearly a century before reaching its current owner in the 1980s.
- The artwork is expected to fetch up to £18,000 at auction, generating significant interest from collectors and institutions.
A significant discovery has been made involving a still life painting by George Leslie Hunter, a prominent Scottish Colourist. This artwork was found concealed on the reverse side of a portrait he created around 1930. The portrait depicts John Ressich, a businessman and author, and was intended for an exhibition at Reid & Lefevre in Glasgow the following year. After being acquired by Ressich, the portrait remained within his family for nearly a century before reaching its current owner in the 1980s. Recently, a family member decided to remove the portrait from their wall, leading to the unexpected revelation of the hidden still life. This double canvas showcases Hunter's talent and adds significant value to the original portrait. Experts at Bonhams, the auction house handling the sale, have expressed excitement over the find, likening it to a 'two for one' artwork. The still life, featuring a study of flowers and fruit, is expected to attract considerable interest from collectors and institutions alike. The auction is anticipated to fetch up to £18,000, highlighting the importance of Hunter's work in the art market. This discovery not only enhances the value of the portrait but also sheds light on Hunter's artistic versatility. As the artwork goes under the hammer for the first time, it represents a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts to acquire a piece of history. The excitement surrounding this find underscores the ongoing interest in Scottish art and the legacy of George Leslie Hunter.