Batman painting traded for some comics expected to sell for more than $100,000 at auction

DALLAS – A painting depicting Batman that pop artist Mel Ramos traded for a stack of comic books more than a half-century ago is expected to bring more than $100,000 at auction.

The 1962 painting titled “A Sinister Figure Lurks in the Dark” will be offered by Heritage Auctions Wednesday in New York City. Heritage says Bill Steinfelt of California is offering up the painting, which he’s had ever since his 1962 trade with the then-undiscovered artist.

Leon Benrimon, Heritage’s New York director of modern and contemporary art, says the painting is one of around 50 works Ramos did early in his career of comic book characters and superheroes. He says the works are widely considered to be Ramos’ breakout series.

Heritage is based in Dallas.