RARE artwork by the late Nelson Mandela will be on view in Darlington next month before it goes under the hammer.

Thomas Watson auctioneers are expecting a high level of interest in the work, entitled ‘Reflections of Robben Island’, which features a signed lithograph depicting the guard tower at the notorious prison where the statesman was incarcerated for 17 years.

Painted in 2003, the sketch is accompanied by a black and white photograph of the tower and a printed version of Mandela’s handwritten artist’s motivation, giving a unique insight to his perspective.

Estimated at £2,500 to £3,500, the three items will be sold as one lot at Thomas Watson’s Fine Sale on November 25.

Visitors can view the Mandela art and other items in the sale on viewing days at the Gallery Saleroom on Northumberland Street from November 21 until sale day.

Head of Fine Sales at Thomas Watson Auctioneers, David Elstob, said: “It’s wonderful to see such a fascinating piece of history right here in Darlington.

“Alongside his many other talents, Nelson Mandela was clearly a gifted artist and it has been a privilege for me to have studied this evocative work by one of the most iconic and inspirational figures of our time.

“We’re expecting a busy saleroom on the 25th as well as a lot of online interest and I’m sure that the Mandela artwork will be one of many highlights on the day.”

Mr Mandela completed some 20 sketches in the early part of the millennium, often focusing on symbolic images from his time at Robben Island.

The lithograph is one of only 350 produced of the guard tower and is signed by Mr Mandela.