Original ‘cat artist’ Louis Wain drawings uncovered in couple’s cupboard

By Ben Turner via SWNS

Two rare drawings by renowned 'cat artist' Louis Wain whose life is soon to feature in a new film starring Benedict Cumberbatch have been uncovered in an elderly couple's cupboard.

The feline-inspired works date back to at least the early 19th century, with one depicting a cat rowing a boat and another showing a cat playing bowls.

Both are expected to fetch up to £1,200 ($1,588) apiece when they go under the hammer at Cheffins in Cambridge on December 9.

The drawings, which are signed by Wain, were lying around in a Cambridge couple's storage units before being unearthed.

Wain, who lived from 1860 to 1939, was famous for his drawings of cats with large eyes.

The artist is the subject of a new feature film starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Claire Foy, which will be released in the UK on December 31.

“These Louis Wain drawings have been languishing in a cupboard for a good many years," saidJohn Richens, 70, owner of the drawings.

"We did have them on the walls for a while but they have been stashed away and haven’t seen the light of day for quite some time."

John acquired the drawings from his grandfather, who worked alongside Wain and was gifted several of his finished drawings.

The two pictures, titled ‘Cat Row Boating’ and ‘Cat Bowling’, are both signed ‘Louis Wain’ and include printing instructions on the reverse.