Lost Rembrandt Painting Discovered in Maine Attic Sells for $1.4 Million

Veilleux conducting the auction in late August.Photo byThomaston Place Auction Galleries

In a truly unexpected turn of events, a lost Rembrandt portrait was recently unearthed in a modest attic in Camden, Maine. This astonishing discovery, which sparked a bidding war culminating in a staggering $1.4 million sale, not only stunned the art world but also initiated a fascinating narrative about the journey of a masterpiece from obscurity to the auction block.

The tale begins with Kaja Veilleux, the founder of Thomaston Place Auction Galleries, conducting a routine appraisal in Camden. Veilleux, a seasoned appraiser known for his discerning eye, was accustomed to unearthing intriguing finds in various homes. However, nothing could have prepared him for what lay hidden among a collection of heirlooms and antiques in this attic.

The portrait, depicting a teenage girl dressed in 17th-century Dutch attire, was discovered tucked away in a gold Dutch frame. Initially, it seemed like another old painting among the clutter, but Veilleux’s keen instincts told him otherwise. Upon closer examination, he found a small tag from the Philadelphia Museum of Art with the name “Rembrandt” and the title “Portrait of a Girl.” It was a revelation that would soon captivate the art community.

Portrait of a Girl was found inside a private estate in Camden, Maine.Photo byThomaston Place Auction Galleries

The story of how this masterpiece found its way to Maine remains a captivating mystery. Historical records indicate that Mr. Cary W. Bok loaned the painting to the Philadelphia Museum of Art for an exhibition in 1970. However, what transpired after that exhibition and how it ended up in a Maine attic remains unknown. This enigma only adds to the allure of the painting’s rediscovery, leaving us with more questions than answers.

Veilleux’s excitement was evident as he described the moment he understood the significance of the find. He noted that few painters matched Rembrandt's style, highlighting the distinctive “ribbon candy collar” of the girl’s lace in the portrait as a hallmark of Rembrandt’s work and the Dutch masters. This unique detail, combined with the painting’s proven history, convinced Veilleux of its authenticity.

The portrait was painted on oak and framed in gold, characteristic of the period and style Rembrandt was known for. The discovery of such a significant artwork in an unexpected place is a testament to the unpredictable nature of art and antiques. While it is not uncommon for valuable pieces to be found in attics or cellars, encountering a Rembrandt in Maine, far from the art centers of Europe, is truly exceptional.

The label attributes the artwork to Rembrandt and indicates that it had been loaned to the Philadelphia Museum of Art in 1970.Photo byThomaston Place Auction Galleries

The auction, hosted by Thomaston Place Auction Galleries, was a thrilling spectacle. The portrait’s unveiling sparked a fierce bidding war, lasting a tense ten minutes and involving nine buyers engaged in telephone bids. The competitive nature of the auction underscored the high value placed on Rembrandt’s work and the eagerness of collectors to acquire such a rare find. The final sale price of $1.4 million was a testament to the painting’s artistic and historical significance, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats.

For Veilleux, the auction was not merely about the financial aspect. His passion for art preservation shone through as he reflected on the experience. “To me, it’s about bringing this art to light so it’s protected, cared for, and preserved,” he emphasized. His commitment to ensuring that the portrait is adequately maintained and shared with the art world is a testament to his dedication to the field.

The discovery of artworks of this caliber is rare in the United States. Veilleux pointed out that such masterpieces are usually found in Europe, where many originated. This find in America is exceptional and adds a unique chapter to the painting's story. Although the portrait has not yet been officially authenticated, there is optimism about its potential value. Mark Winter, an authentication expert, suggested that if confirmed, the painting could be worth around $15 million, making the $1.4 million purchase a substantial bargain.

Zebulon Casperson, who represented the winning bidder, expressed his astonishment at closing a deal of this magnitude. He described it as a "shared victory," reflecting the excitement and significance of the sale. This rediscovered Rembrandt, with its intriguing backstory and impressive final bid, stands as a testament to the unpredictable nature of art and the enduring allure of historical masterpieces.