A Bolton auction House thinks that they might have.
A few months ago Bolton Auction Rooms received an email, not dissimilar to many that they get,saying that a man had died and would they be interested in any of the hundred and twenty one paintings that he had left behind.
What they discovered was a treasure trove of pictures ranging from street scenes in Manchester and Salford to scenes from the Mediterranean.
The pictures were painted by Mr Robert Whitaker, one time resident of Moss Side and later of Regent Road in Salford.
Little is known of Mr Whitaker.He was born in 1923, he never married, lived with his brother, who died three months after him in June of this year, and according to the little information about him was something of a recluse, rarely leaving the house.
What he has left, according to art experts who have seen the collection, is something quite fantastic. ” For a collection like this to fall into our hands is quite remarkable” say Alan Howcroft Director of Bolton Auctions.
A look through the catalogue shows the diversity of his work, canals in Castlefield, cricket in Salford, Market Street, the Irwell, as well scenes from around Britain, harbour scenes in Whitby, the Cotswolds and further afield, Venice’s Grand Canal.He also painted portraits, including of stars such as the opera singer Pavarotti.
Only one of his paintings, it is believed, was sold in his lifetime to a friend for £500.
As befitting this remarkable story, all money raised will be going to charities of Mr Whitaker’s choice including the local donkey sanctuary and dogs and cats rescue home.
The auction takes place on the 6th Nov with a preview day the day before.
