Amy Winehouse's blood portrait for sale

Los Angeles - A self-portrait by Amy Winehouse drawn in her blood is to be auctioned.

The picture features the outline of the late singer's face, with the word "ladylike" next to it, and is expected to fetch between £50 000 and £80 000.

The painting is one of a number being auctioned by singer Pete Doherty - a close friend of Amy - alongside examples of his own work, which also feature paintings made with his blood.

Of his friend's portrait he said: "Amy was on the phone to her dad when she did that (painting). She said, 'Dad, I'm with Pete and he's making me draw with my blood!' He didn't like me much, her dad."

However, Amy's father Mitch has denied she created the painting with her blood.

He tweeted: "Do you believe that Amy painted that picture in her blood? Absolute rubbish."

'Personal nature'

The auction will take place at the Cob Gallery in London where Pete's work has been on display.

Amy's painting was previously displayed but not part of an earlier sale "due to its personal nature".

Pete has previously told of his distress at Amy's passing from accidental alcohol poisoning in June last year, although he also calls it an inspiring time.

He said: "When Amy died I was sat in a room, a matchbox room in London, not able to leave, basically wallowing in my own filth. Literally knee deep in shit. Literally not able to move.

"I couldn't speak, I couldn't see anyone, I couldn't pick up the guitar, and when I did pick up the guitar it was to write woeful ballads about how Amy wouldn't be coming around tonight. It was an inspiring time."

Other items Pete is auctioning include military jackets, notebooks and his writing desk.