A young boy's bargain purchase at a yard sale turned out to be a significant piece of art, as was discovered on an episode of Antiques Roadshow.
The painting, bought for $2, was appraised by expert David Weiss on the popular PBS program to have a value between $1,000 and $1,500, as the Daily Mail reports.
Weiss, an experienced appraiser on Antiques Roadshow, noted the young collector's keen interest in various collectibles, mentioning his specialization in glass, sterling silver, and art. The boy routinely buys these items at bargain prices and resells them online for profit, showcasing his budding entrepreneurial spirit.
At the South Jersey auction, the young collector and his father endured sweltering conditions, waiting over an hour to present the painting to Weiss. Initially, the boy was unsure if the artwork was a watercolor because the UV glass made it difficult to determine. Weiss confirmed that it indeed was a watercolor, and both were intrigued by the partially legible signature that read "Albert."
The suspense built as Weiss revealed the artist behind the piece, Albert Neuhuys, a Dutch painter whose works were prominent in the last quarter of the 19th century. This revelation marked a significant moment not just for the boy but for viewers at home.
Weiss's appraisal valued the painting between $1,000 and $1,500, a considerable amount for such a minor investment. The boy's astonished response of "whoa" captured the viewers' hearts, reflecting the genuine excitement and surprise of discovering such an unexpected fortune.
"You must be the youngest collector I've ever seen," Weiss remarked to which the boy modestly replied, "I guess so." This brief exchange underscored not just the boy's innocence but also his impressive early start in the world of collectibles.
The appraiser's comment about the painting’s worth, “Not bad for two bucks. I think you've got a great career going as an art dealer if you keep at it,” was both encouraging and validating for the boy. His plans for the future seemed bright and ambitious as he cheerfully stated, "I think I'm gonna be rich."
Weiss did not hesitate to encourage the boy further, saying, "Well if you keep buying things like this, I think you have a good chance at being rich - you got a head start." This statement not only buoyed the young collector's spirit but also emphasized the potential success that could lie ahead if he continues on his current path.
The boy’s pragmatic approach to collecting and reselling highlights a promising future in art and collectibles. His ability to recognize value is exceptional, and the appraisal on a major TV show like Antiques Roadshow provides a foundation for more opportunities.
This story highlights the blend of enthusiasm and beginner's luck often seen in young collectors. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of encouraging youthful interests and how such hobbies can evolve into lifelong passions or even profitable careers.
In conclusion, the young boy's discovery of an Albert Neuhuys painting at a yard sale for $2, only to find it valued between $1,000 and $1,500 on Antiques Roadshow, underscores the unpredictable excitement of the world of art and collectibles.
