Missing Iconic Nigerian Painting Found In London Flat

A missing painting of a Nigerian princess that attained an almost mythical status after going decades unseen has been discovered in a north London flat.

Ben Enwonwu’s 1974 painting of the Ife princess Adetutu Ademiluyi, known as Tutu, is a national icon in Nigeria, with poster reproductions hanging on some walls in some homes in Nigeria.

However, the painting will be sold at Bonhams in London on February 28. The sale will also broadcast live to bidders in Lagos.

It is expected to sell for between £200,000 and £300,000. If it goes over the upper limit it will set a new record for a modern Nigerian artist.