An early effort by Francis Cadell is expected to be among the main attractions at Bonhams' Scottish art sale in Edinburgh on April 21.

The 1909 Pink Robe was painted in the same year the Scottish colourist obtained his first studio and could well exceed its £80,000 top end estimate.

It displays clear evidence of the artist working at speed, lending an unusually vibrant feel to a still-life.

"This picture is classic early Cadell - with rich colour handled spontaneously, and whole areas blocked in quickly," says the auctioneer.

"The lilac wall is a keynote to many of the pictures painted after he moved to Ainslie Place in Edinburgh in the 1920s and his delight in fine objects and elegant interiors is evident."

Scottish colourists such as Cadell are in fashion

Iona looking to the Dutchman's Cap, a later work by Cadell, is expected to make £60,000 at the same sale.

Scottish colourists are always popular with investors at auction. A number of pieces, including some by Cadell, are set to appear at Christie's next month.