A painting 400 years ago is worth millions (forgotten in a warehouse)

(CNN) – A 400-year-old Dutch masterpiece believed to be worth millions of dollars by experts has been found in a warehouse in Australia.

The work, known as “Still Life”, has been housed for many years in a museum called the Woodford Academy in the Blue Mountains, New South Wales.

A valuable 17th century painting of the Dutch Golden Age, the building and its contents were discovered in a collection of 60,000 pieces after being donated to the National Foundation of Australia.

“It’s an extraordinary and very exciting time,” said Julian Pickerstead, project coordinator and chief executive of the International Security Services, a restructuring agency for the rest of the country.

The painting shows a white tablecloth and table: a minced bag, nuts and a muffin, and a silver cup and glassware.

The work is due to Gerid Willems. Heda was the son of the famous 17th century Dutch painter Willem Glass. Heda is recognized as one of the greatest masters of the Dutch Golden Age.

But experts are still exploring the origins of “still life”.

According to the press release, Gerrit Williams signed. It was not until 1945 that Heda resembled his father, and his paintings were attributed to him.

A spokesman for the foundation said the value of the artwork was still being estimated, but experts believe it was worth millions of Australian dollars. Works by Willem Klass. The spokesman added that the value of the Heda was typically $ 4 to $ 5 million (US $ 2.9 to $ 3.7 million).

A signature was found on the artwork in recognition of the artist. Credit: Australian National Trust

“It was thrilling to find a real 17th century painting in my National Trust cellar, and it caught my breath,” said Rebecca Pinch, manager of the National Foundation’s collection.

“The opportunity to discover the artist’s signature was felt by one in a million. It was an amazing discovery, taking us on a journey of many years, checking the work through expert advice and technology and checking the work.”

Alfred Fairfax, son-in-law of James Fairfax, founder of the Sydney Morning Herald, is credited with introducing the artwork to the Woodford home.

He bought the building in 1868, at which time Dutch works and the “old master” auction were particularly popular, the foundation added.

The painting will be on display at the Woodford Academy in Blue Mountain on May 14 as part of the 2022 Australian Heritage Festival.