Bulgarian police have found a previously unknown painting by American artist Jackson Pollock, who died in 1956, during investigations into international art smugglers. Several experts at the National Art Museum have agreed that the painting is by Pollock, although it will undergo further scrutiny.
The painting carries an inscription on its back dedicated to American actress Lauren Bacall, which reads, "Dedicated to my dear and very talented friend, Lauren Bacall, Happy Birthday." It is dated September 16, 1949. Pollock was one of the leading figures of the Abstract Expressionism movement in the 1940s and 1950s, known for his technique of pouring and dripping paint in wild patterns on large canvases.
Bulgarian National Radio reported that the value of the painting could reach up to 50 million euros (54 million dollars). The official news agency BTA stated that several people, including Bulgarians, have been detained in the international operation. The agency's report did not include any description of the painting or additional details about it.
Petar Todorov, first deputy of the Bulgarian Ministry of Internal Affairs, stated to Novinite news agency, "It is an international operation involving Europol, Greece, and other countries," and added that the painting appears to be authentic.
