Spain halts sale of possible Caravaggio painting
Spain has blocked the auction of a painting in Madrid, following suggestions it could be a long-lost masterpiece by the Italian Renaissance artist Caravaggio.
The starting price for Crowning of Thorns was initially 1,500 euros (£1,300; $1,800).
But if it is indeed by Michelangelo Caravaggio, it could be worth up to €150m.
The painting is being examined by experts and declared "not for export".
The 17th Century oil painting depicts Jesus just before his crucifixion and, according to the auction catalogue, is attributed to Spanish artist José de Ribera.
With concerns the work could be sold abroad, the Spanish government moved quickly and blocked the auction just hours before the painting was due to go under the hammer.