King Billy oil painting up for auction

A number of items relating to "King Billy" are scheduled to go under the hammer in Ballymoney on Friday.

Among the lots on sale will be an oil painting of the Battle of the Boyne victor on goat skin, once used for a Lambeg drum, as well as several prints and various commemorative jugs.

Auctioneer Gerry McAfee revealed the Williamite related items had been put up for sale by a private collector.

He said he expected a lot of interest in the collection leading up to the annual Twelfth celebrations.

"The oil painting is an illustration of King William on his horse on goat skin. This would have been at one time a side panel on a Lambeg drum," he said.

"We estimate it to be 40 to 50 years old but it remains in good condition."

A number of prints, thought to be copies of original paintings, showing William crossing the Boyne river are also part of the collection. Another print relates specifically to the Relief of Derry in 1689.

"This is also a reproduction and was exhibited in various places in Ireland this year," Mr McAfee said.

While admitting it was difficult to put a price on the items due to their rarity, he said: "The oil painting could sell for something in the region of 200-300 and the prints could make 100-150."

The Orange Order has indicated its desire to showcase its extensive collection in an extended museum at its headquarters in east Belfast, Schomberg House.

Earlier this month, a handwritten account recording intimate details of the battle was sold at a London auction.

The original writings, penned by a Jacobite soldier Captain John Stevens, revealed the extent of the disorder within the ranks of Catholic King James' army, ultimately defeated by forces led by King William in 1690. The book eventually sold for 43,200.

A Royal Worchester vase, an early child's pedal car and annuals relating to fictional football character, Roy of the Rovers, will also be up for sale at the auction.