In a recent wave of re-discovery, a painting believed to be by Caravaggio has been found in a dusty attic in France.
In a recent wave of re-discovery, a painting believed to be by Caravaggio has been found in a dusty attic in France.
The painting was actually discovered two years ago, according to The Guardian, but has been under examination since then. Now, it appears as though sufficient support has been obtained with regards to its authenticity, leading to the public announcement of this finding.
The painting depicts the beheading of the general Holofernes by Judith, a scene from the Book of Judith. Experts estimate it was painted in the early 1600’s, and all agree that it is a masterpiece. Although the painting is made in the Italian master’s unmistakable style, style in itself can not prove its authorship. Nonetheless, the French culture ministry has placed an export ban on the piece, forbidding it from leaving French soil for the next 30 months, as more tests are carried out.
Price estimates have already soared over €100m – a number which reflects the growing faith in the authenticity of the painting as a true Caravaggio. In such cases, it is also clear that the story itself – finding a long lost masterpiece in a forgotten attic –adds to the value of a painting.