The painting had been hanging in the hallway at the charity’s home in Marazion for decades, before it was moved up to the attic for safe keeping during refurbishment work at the home.
The artwork then piqued the interest of a new, art-loving member of staff at St Teresa’s, which supports up to 27 disabled adults.
The creator of the painting appears to be renowned Cornish painter Stanhope Alexander Forbes. Intrigued BBC show experts valued the piece, titled Taking a Rest, A Girl Seated on a Stool, at several thousand pounds.
St Teresa’s staff spotted Forbes’ name on the painting, taking it to the Antiques Roadshow this summer.
The painting is titled Taking a Rest, A Girl Seated on a Stool (Image: Leonard Cheshire)
Laura Sanders is Leonard Cheshire’s regional director for the south west and lives in Cornwall. She said: “This is brilliant for everyone connected with St Teresa’s, both residents and staff.
“We’re proud to have an amazing piece by such a superb Cornish artist.
“Some of our residents first saw the painting when they joined us decades ago. We want to thank everyone connected with the Antiques Roadshow for their enthusiasm, guidance and expertise.”
Born in 1858 and known for his beautiful paintings of Cornwall, Forbes founded the Newlyn School of Art just across the road from St Teresa’s. His paintings, including studies like this one, can fetch thousands of pounds.
This much-valued piece, purchased from London art dealers David Messum Fine Arts, was gifted to the home’s former treasurer more than 50 years ago.
St Teresa’s staff believe charity’s founder, World War Two hero Leonard Cheshire, is most likely to have gifted the painting.
The RAF veteran, who set up St Teresa’s on its current site in 1955, was a frequent visitor to the home and Cornwall for many years.
Today, senior staff members proudly live on Forbes Road in Newlyn, well aware of their links to the artist.
A label indicating the artist was Stanhope Alexander Forbes (Image: Leonard Cheshire)
Staff took the work to the Antiques Roadshow tour after encouragement from BBC show stalwart Steven Moore.
Held on the Dartington Estate in Totnes, Devon, the day was a big boost for everyone connected with St Teresa’s.
National and local experts are still helping out, with staff and residents keen to discover more about the famous Forbes painting.