A painting bought for $5 at a bric-a-brac sale in Northland has been attributed to a Canadian aritist and is expected to fetch much more at auction next week.
The unsigned work is believed to be by Lawren Harris, whose works have collectively sold for more than C$70 million.
The Fine Art Society of New Zealand says the painting, a sketch of a river scene, has been valued at between $20,000 - $50,000.
Director Grant Bezet says the owner, who wishes to remain anonymous, bought the painting earlier this year while travelling in Northland.
He says she was told that it was from the estate of a Canadian woman, who had emigrated from Ontario to New Zealand and had received it as a wedding gift.
Mr Bizet says the society is hoping the painting can remain in New Zealand.
The auction is in Hamilton on Monday, 22 November.
