Portrait of a Youth by Lippi, Filippino

Lippi, Filippino · c. 1485

This striking "Portrait of a Youth" by Filippino Lippi, painted around 1485, now resides in a private collection. Its journey to recognition, however, is a tale of art-historical detective work and a dramatic increase in value.

For many years, this compelling portrait, with its subject's intense gaze and vibrant red cap, was attributed to a different, lesser-known artist. This misattribution meant its estimated value lingered around $5,000, significantly understating its true worth.

Then, in 2013, a pivotal re-evaluation by a leading art expert correctly identified the work as an authentic piece by Filippino Lippi, a significant Italian Renaissance painter. This correction instantly elevated the painting's status, transforming its market value.

The re-attribution led to the painting selling for an astonishing $1.5 million. It's a powerful reminder of how attribution can reshape an artwork's history and its place in the art world.

Details

For centuries, this portrait was thought to be by another artist.

Its value was estimated at a modest $5,000.

Then, in 2013, an expert identified the true painter.

This is a rare work by Filippino Lippi, from 1485.

Transcript

This young man has an interesting past. For centuries, this portrait was thought to be by another artist. Its value was estimated at a modest $5,000. Then, in 2013, an expert identified the true painter. This is a rare work by Filippino Lippi, from 1485. The painting was re-valued. It sold for $1.5 million.