Possibly unique painting of Jane Austen to go on sale

LONDON -- What many believe to be the only painting of Jane Austen will be auctioned in New York in April by Christie's, a relation of the English author and owner of the picture said.

But Henry Rice, a"sixth generation descendant" of the writer of classics such as"Emma,""Sense and Sensibility" and"Pride and Prejudice," believes the sale of a picture that has divided experts will not be without controversy.

In 1948, a leading Austen scholar dismissed the authenticity of the portrait, saying the style of costume the subject wears does not match the date.

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