A painting carrying an estimate of just €500 to €800 sold in James Adam’s salerooms yesterday (9th April) for €120,000.

‘Jesus Wearing the Crown of Thorns‘ a 19th century oil on copper panel, measuring 13″ x 9.5″ contained in an ornate carved and gilded frame. slipped beneath the auctioneer’s radar, but with the availability of online viewing and bidding it caught the attention of overseas buyers. That it has gone abroad is of no great loss to Ireland, and the vendors and auctioneers are laughing all the way to the bank! That is unless it appears at Sotheby’s or Christie’s with a seven-figure price tag.