Renaissance of Rarities: An Art Explorer from Maine in Focus

Kaja Veilleux, an experienced treasure hunter in the world of antiques, has been scouring the attics of New England for hidden treasures for over five decades. His knack for discovering hidden artworks made headlines again when he found a portrait in an old farmhouse in Maine that may be by the Dutch master Rembrandt and could be worth several million dollars. Veilleux recounts past experiences, such as when he came across a valuable gold coin whose value was significantly reduced by an overeager owner through improper cleaning. "Every day is a kind of treasure hunt," says the 73-year-old as he evaluates antiques, artworks, and furniture with his expertise. His knowledge gives him an edge when it comes to distinguishing treasures from liabilities. However, the art market remains unpredictable—who would have thought that a banana taped to a wall could be a million-dollar success? Veilleux's passion began at a young age when he practiced coin collecting and learned a life lesson when he paid too high a price for a supposed artwork. His most remarkable find this year occurred during a house visit in Camden, Maine. In a house stuffed with rarities, he discovered a magnificent painting in the attic that may be by Rembrandt himself. This could be one of the most valuable discoveries of his long career and once again shows that art history can be written in dusty corners.