A couple were surprised when they uncovered the origins of a painting in their house and discovered the origins behind it. In the first episode of the new series of Fake or Fortune? on BBC One on Tuesday, August 23, hosts Fiona Bruce, Philip Mould and the team analyse a mural found in a cottage believed to be by Ben Nicholson (1894-1982).
The artwork, which was discovered by Ian and Julie Herrington in their Surrey home, was found nearly 20 years ago. The couple weren't keen to keep the painting on their bedroom wall but just before Ian was about to put emulsion over it, an elderly neighbour mentioned that the work was by the well-known abstract artist.
Ian, who works as a builder by trade, was midway through a house extension and was concerned the building work might put the artwork at risk. Prior to enlisting specialist conservators to remove the work, the couple were keen to find out if it was of any value and when they did, the results shocked them.
