Mystery Chinese painting sold for over £45,000 by Lymington Auctions

A mystery Chinese painting provided a windfall for a Lymington family after it sold at auction for more than £45,000.

The picture had been in the family for 80 years and had been hung casually in the house. It was left to the children of the owner after he died.

The artwork, an 18th century Chinese export mirror painting in a gilt frame, was auctioned by family-run Lymington Auctions.

Manager Hannah Small said it was “super exciting” for the firm, but the family could shed little light on the picture’s history.

“Unfortunately there really isn’t much information. The father passed away and no information was given to the family,” she said. “There was no maker of the item, either.

“Everyone was, of course, shocked by the result as it was estimated at £10,000.”

She added: “The condition was great, there was only a tiny imperfection to the top-left corner.”