JMW Turner (British, 1775–1851), The Rising Squall, Hot Wells, from St. Vincent's Rock, Bristol, 1792, oil on canvas, courtesy of Sotheby's
Key points
An early work by JMW Turner has been rediscovered after 150 years.
It had been wrongly attributed to a follower of Julius Caesar Ibbetson .
Turner's signature was revealed during a cleaning after its sale.
Estimated at £600-800 in 2007, it is now worth £200,000-300,000 .
It will be auctioned at Sotheby's in London.
A forgotten work by British painter JMW Turner , rediscovered after more than 150 years, is about to be auctioned at Sotheby's for an estimated sum of between 200,000 and 300,000 pounds . Yet just a few years ago, this painting was offered for sale for a maximum of 800 pounds .
From a modest estimate to a spectacular revaluation
When it first appeared on the market in 2007, the painting was attributed to a follower of Julius Caesar Ibbetson , an 18th-century British painter. It was only much later, during a thorough cleaning after its sale last year , that Turner's signature was discovered on The Rising Squall, Hot Wells, from St Vincent's Rock, Bristol .
Today, thanks to new technical and stylistic expertise , the work has been formally reattributed to Turner himself , which has completely changed its status—and its value.
Sotheby's bets on a youthful masterpiece
The prestigious Sotheby's recently announced that this painting will be included in its July sale in London, with an estimate of between £200,000 and £300,000 . This dramatic jump illustrates the importance of authenticity and provenance in the art market.
According to experts, this work already demonstrates the qualities of light, atmosphere, and composition that would make Turner famous. The subject—a dramatic seascape —prefigures the themes the painter would develop throughout his career.
This rediscovery offers collectors a unique opportunity to acquire an authentic Turner painting , dating back to before his most famous works. Experts believe it could far exceed its auction estimate , given the high demand for rare works by the Romantic painter.
FAQ
What is the work found?
The Rising Squall, Hot Wells, from St Vincent's Rock, Bristol , painted c.1793-94.
Why is this work important?
This is one of Turner's earliest known paintings, produced as a teenager.
How was it authenticated?
Thanks to the discovery of Turner's signature during cleaning, and to an in-depth stylistic analysis.
Why did his estimate explode?
The direct attribution to Turner transformed a minor work into a major piece on the art market.
When and where will it be sold?
In July 2025 at Sotheby's, London .
Nicolas Sarazin