Francis Bacon painting could fetch £25m

A Francis Bacon painting that has been held in a private collection for more than 30 years could fetch as much as £25 million when it goes on sale next month.

The painting, Figure Writing Reflected In Mirror, will go on show in London on April 13 before going on view in New York where it will be sold as part of Sotheby's Contemporary Art Sale.

The half-naked figure depicted in the work, which is described by the gallery as one of Bacon's "most powerful and sophisticated paintings", is believed to represent Bacon's partner George Dyer and the artist himself.

It first went on show in Paris in 1977 where it was bought by its present owners.

Dublin-born Bacon, who died in 1992, is one of the most sought-after modern artists.

Another of his works was sold for £21 million earlier this year after being auctioned at Christie's in London.

PA