CNN —It’s hard to quantify the value of painter and all-around cultural icon Bob Ross, but $9.85 million is a good start. The very first on-air painting from the very first episode of Ross’ beloved series “The Joy of Painting” is looking for a new owner after being kept safe for decades by one of the show’s early volunteers. It has been verified as authentic by Bob Ross Inc.A close-up of the work shows Ross' iconic signature. Modern ArtifactModern Artifact owner Ryan Nelson said Ross’ work has seen increasing demand over the years. “The driving force behind the increased demand for Bob Ross paintings seems to be collectors themselves,” Nelson said in a statement.

---

Persons: CNN —, Bob Ross, Ross ’, Ross, ”, Ryan Nelson, ” Nelson, Nelson, it’s, ” Ross Organizations: CNN, Virginia PBS, Bob Ross Inc, PBS Locations: Minneapolis, Falls Church, Virginia