Nelson Mandela is known for many things, but not usually for his artwork. But this week the revered statesman and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize will headline a unique contemporary African art auction in New York.

Contemporary African art auction in New York

Giles Peppiatt spent several months assembling his contemporary and modern African art sale, entitled "Africa Now". It is the first commercial auction of pieces from sub-Saharan Africa in the United States by any of the major houses.

Giles Peppiatt, director of African Art at Bonhams, said, "We've got about 130 paintings here, which vary in value from as little as 2 or 3,000 US dollars, up to the most expensive one, I think, is about 80 to 100,000 US dollars. It is a market that is still very nascent. It's really still growing. It seems extraordinary that here we are in 2010 - it's the first ever sale to be held in New York.

One of the biggest draws of the sale is a complete set of lithographs by the former South African president which illustrate images from Mandela's incarceration on Robben Island as a political prisoner. The sketches, originally done in 2002 to raise funds for his foundation, are the first full set to ever come to auction, which means no one can accurately forecast their value, though estimates start at 45,000 US dollars.

The sale also features some of Africa's most exciting artists, whose work have been sold by Bonhams in London. There are 137 works by 78 artists from 14 countries.

The Bonhams' auction of contemporary and modern African art sale takes place March 10th.