An Antiques Roadshow guest became emotional after discovering the true value of her painting, which had a hidden mosquito inside.
During a recent episode of “Antiques Roadshow”, a woman had a touching experience when she learned the value of her family painting.
This moment happened on the American version of the show, which airs on PBS.
Woman brought in a painting to Antiques Roadshow
The woman brought in a painting that had been passed down in her family for many generations.
Her great-grandfather originally gave it to her grandmother over 70 years ago.
As the woman shared the story of the painting, she explained that had been appraised twice before.
Once in 1998, it was valued at about $200, and again in 2004, it was worth $250.
The woman removed a mosquito hidden inside the painting
She also mentioned a surprising discovery: when she received the painting from her grandmother, she found a dead mosquito trapped under the glass.
She carefully removed the insect but quickly put the glass back, knowing the painting looked valuable.
Background of the valuable painting and the artist
The painting was appraised by Meredith Hilferty, a director of fine art auctions and an expert on “Antiques Roadshow.”
Hilferty asked the woman if she knew anything about the artist. The painting depicted Native Americans riding horses through the mountains.
The appraiser explained that the artist, Henry Francois Farny, was born in France and had strong connections with Native American tribes.
Hilferty shared that Farny moved to Pennsylvania when he was six years old.
He developed a deep appreciation for Native American culture and focused on depicting their lives in his artwork.
Instead of showing violence, Farny portrayed peaceful scenes, making his paintings unique and special.
As Hilferty continued to discuss the painting, she revealed its potential auction value.
Antiques Roadshow seller cries as learning item’s value after removing mosquito inside
The woman listened in shock as Hilferty estimated that the painting could sell for between $200,000 and $300,000.
She stated: “If we were going to put this in an auction today, I would suggest an estimate of $200,000 to $300,000.”
Overwhelmed by this information, the woman burst into tears.
She was speechless, unable to believe how much her family heirloom was worth.
In a light-hearted moment, she joked, “So I can’t hang it up?”
After her emotional reaction, she asked Hilferty if she should have left the mosquito in the painting.
Hilferty reassured her that removing the insect was a good decision.
She explained that the mosquito could have decayed further and caused damage to the painting.
Hilferty explained: “It’s actually not a bad idea that you took the bug out, ultimately we would like for our conservator to do that, but the bug could have continued to decay and caused a stain.”
This response helped the woman feel better about her choice.