Bargain Hunt star Charles Hanson set to auction off rare portrait of boxing legend Muhammad Ali at four-day event

The striking half-length portrait, rendered in bold, expressive strokes, captures the essence and charisma of Ali — widely regarded as one of the greatest sports figures of the 20th century. 

The artwork will be featured in Hansons Auctioneers’ Four-Day Antiques & Collectors Auction, which begins on Wednesday, 17th July, at their Derbyshire saleroom.

Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers, which also has an auction house in Lichfield, said: “This is a breathtaking sketch - a remarkable meeting of minds, and heavyweights, in their respective worlds. Muhammad Ali’s legacy as a sportsman, humanitarian and icon needs no introduction. 

"But what makes this piece so special is that it was drawn by Eric Morecambe – a national treasure in his own right.

”We were honoured to handle the sale of contents from Eric and Joan Morecambe’s former home earlier this year. Eric’s talents extended well beyond comedy - he was a keen artist with a real flair for drawing. 

"This particular sketch, depicting such a global figure, is both unexpected and deeply impressive.”

Morecambe, one half of the legendary comedy duo Morecambe and Wise, was also a passionate and skilled amateur artist. The sketch, depicting Ali in a powerful, contemplative pose, highlights Morecambe’s lesser-known talent for capturing likeness and personality through art.

Accompanied by its original Embankment Gallery label, the artwork was part of the 1978 exhibition Brush With the Famous, held on 31st October that year. The label adds significant provenance to a piece already steeped in cultural value.

“This is more than just a piece of memorabilia,” Charles Hanson added. 

“It’s a fascinating crossover between sport, comedy, and art - a cultural snapshot of the 1970s, and a testament to two men who were, and remain, household names.”

Expected to fetch between £1,000 and £2,000, the sketch is likely to draw strong interest from fans of both Muhammad Ali and Eric Morecambe. Bids will be accepted in person, online, and via telephone during the auction.

Hansons previously handled the sale of items from the former home of Eric and Joan Morecambe earlier this year, further highlighting the enduring appeal of the comedy legend’s personal legacy.

The auction represents a rare opportunity to own a piece that unites two icons from very different worlds — in one extraordinary work of art.