A painting of British artist Sir Alfred James Munnings, one of the most popular figures at the Lamorna artists’ colony in the early 20th century, has been found hidden behind a painting by Laura Knight, another artist studying at the colony who is believed to have had a sort of love affair with Munnings. Though their relationship was never sexual, Knight’s affection for Munnings was well known, including by her husband, Harold Knight, who is believed to be the painter of the found portrait.
Scholars think the painting, which was found hidden behind a work by Laura herself, was covered around 1915 to avoid Harold’s jealousy, and was maybe even retrieved from the trash and hidden by Laura after Harold learned of her affection for Munnings and disposed of the work.
The painting will go up for auction at Christie’s in December; it is expected to sell for £50,000 ($80,872).
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