A Surprising Discovery at Beaumaris Castle

In a captivating episode of BBC's Antiques Roadshow, aired from the stunning Beaumaris Castle on Anglesey, a guest experienced a whirlwind of emotions when a humble sculpture he had been using as a doorstop was revealed to be a rare and valuable piece of art.

Highlights of the Episode

The episode featured a series of remarkable treasures, with notable highlights including a potentially original edition of Winnie the Pooh and an exquisite ballerina brooch. However, the standout moment came when a guest shared his quirky find—a sculpture he purchased for just £50 at a local car boot sale three years ago.

The Guest's Confusion

During the appraisal, the guest expressed his confusion regarding the piece, saying, "I've always been perplexed by it, wondering what it is." He humorously revealed its unexpected role as a doorstop for the past year and mentioned, "Someone mentioned it could be African; I don't know."

Expert Appraisal by John Foster

Expert appraiser John Foster then delivered a shocking revelation: the sculpture was the work of Ben Enwonwu, a renowned Nigerian artist celebrated for his unique ability to blend traditional Nigerian art forms with Western techniques. Enwonwu, who was born in Nigeria in 1917 and passed away in the mid-1990s, gained fame in the 1940s and had his works exhibited in prestigious galleries across New York, London, and Milan.

Pioneering Contribution to Art

Foster explained how Enwonwu was a pioneer in the art world, saying, "He was the first pioneer in mixing Nigerian art with Western art. Known primarily as a sculptor in bronze and stone, this piece, which is carved stone, likely dates from the 1970s."

Staggering Appraisal Value

The guest listened in disbelief as Foster valued his once-forgotten doorstop at an astonishing £10,000 to £15,000. Overwhelmed by the news, the guest exclaimed, "You're joking! I could cry. I had no inclination that it was going to be worth so much money. It's shocked me." His initial expectation had been a mere £100 for the sculpture, making the appraisal even more startling.

A Reminder of Hidden Treasures

This heartwarming moment illustrates not only the surprises that hidden treasures can hold but also highlights the rich cultural heritage and artistic contributions of figures like Ben Enwonwu. Whether you’re an avid collector or a casual viewer, this episode of Antiques Roadshow is a reminder that art can often be found in the most unexpected places.