An exceptionally rare discovery at a thrift store has fetched over £41,000 in a recent sale.
In Norwich, a volunteer at The Salvation Army charity shop stumbled upon an original signed print by the late artist David Hockney in a donated book. The book, a copy of Paper Pools, was donated last year and caught the eye of Jemma Banks, a dedicated volunteer and local artist.
Upon inspecting the book, Banks uncovered a 46-year-old original signed print that had been tucked away inside. The Salvation Army Trading Company and their online eBay store confirmed the authenticity of the print, leading to the book being listed for auction on The Salvation Army’s Collectables & Curiosity eBay shop.
Bidding for the artwork quickly escalated, culminating in a remarkable sale of £41,160. The purchaser, who opted to remain anonymous, expressed immense joy at acquiring the piece. They shared, “Acquiring such an iconic piece by David Hockney is incredibly special, and I’m thrilled that the purchase supports The Salvation Army’s vital work.”
Jemma Banks expressed her astonishment at holding a genuine signed David Hockney print and highlighted the book’s hidden value that will now benefit the community through fundraising efforts.
Published in 1980, Paper Pools showcases some of Hockney’s renowned swimming pool artworks. The inclusion of the original signed print within the book elevated its status to an “exceptionally rare collector’s piece,” as noted by The Salvation Army.
Major Tracey Bale, overseeing The Salvation Army’s Norwich Citadel, praised Banks for her keen eye and dedication, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the significance of donations. Reflecting on the event, Bale highlighted the volunteers’ commitment to diligently handling donations, with each item potentially holding a remarkable story.
David Hockney, a prominent British artist, passed away peacefully on June 11, leaving behind a legacy of innovative artistry that spanned traditional painting to digital mediums. Hockney’s artistic journey began at the Bradford School of Art in the 1950s, leading him to emerge as a key figure among the new wave of British artists post his graduation from the Royal College of Art in London.