A print found during a house clearance in Nottinghamshire has been signed by world-famous artist LS Lowry – which means it could sell for thousands of pounds at auction.
The snowy picture, titled Peel Park, was uncovered by Hansons Auctioneers. It is one of 850 copies signed by Laurence Stephen Lowry, who lived from 1887 to 1976 and gained recognition for painting scenes of working life in England’s industrial North West in the mid-20th century. Much of his art depicts Pendlebury, Lancashire, where he lived and worked for more than 40 years, and the Salford area.
Mr Hanson said: “Lowry gained recognition for his seemingly simple depictions of working-class life in the north. He captured the mood and sentiment of the time.When we found the rare print, we discovered it had been given as a gift because it’s inscribed on the back to ‘Barbara and Peter’ and was given to them in 1976 to make their wedding day.
“Peel Park in Salford was one of the first public parks to be opened in 1846 for the people of Manchester. It was visited in 1851 by Queen Victoria and was highly acclaimed so it’s not surprising Lowry chose to paint it for posterity.
“During house clearances we come across lots of prints which are often of little or no auction value. To uncover one signed by the great master of 20th century urban art is a real find.”
The print is expected to fetch between £1,500 and £2,000 in Hansons’ Winter Fine Art Auction on February 24 at their Derbyshire showroom in Etwall. Further auction entries are invited. To arrange a free valuation, book a home visit or house clearance, please contact Charles Hanson on 01283 733988 or email [email protected].
