FOCUS ON ATTENBOROUGH COLLECTION; Your money.

Byline: MELANIE WRIGHT

Instant expert

A SALE of modern British paintings and prints built up during the life and career of one of Britain's most prolific actors, directors and producers comes up at auction later this year. Lord Richard Attenborough remains one of the most fondly regarded talents and many may not know of his appetite for important artworks of the last century.

Basics

THE collection of Lord and Lady Attenborough will comprise a fine selection of 20th Century British paintings, including works by leading artists such as LS Lowry, Henry Moore, Edward Burra, Ben Nicholson, Ivon Hitchens, Barbara Hepworth, Graham Sutherland and Christopher Wood. In addition, the sale will offer a rare and desirable group of Christopher Nevinson prints of World War One.

How much?

A LIFE In Pictures: The Collection of Lord and Lady Attenborough will take place on Wednesday, November 11 at Sotheby's London. There are approximately 50 lots which are expected to realise pounds 2million. One of the highlights of the sale is Old Houses by LS Lowry. Lord Attenborough was a close friend of the artist for many years and the painting is expected to fetch between pounds 300,000 to pounds 500,000.

Real deal

LORD Attenborough said of the sale of his unique collection: "We have loved and cherished these wonderful pieces throughout the course of our lives, but in all truth art belongs to no one - some of us are simply its temporary, fortunate and delighted custodians. Now is the moment for us to pass on these ravishing images for others to treasure and enjoy."

CAPTION(S):

LS Lowry's Old Houses painting