The celebrated writer passed away last year (14), aged 86, and now her estate executors have decided to sell off almost 50 of her favourite artworks.

Among the highlights will be a painted quilt by artist Faith Ringgold, which was commissioned by Oprah Winfrey for her friend's 69th birthday in 1989 and features an image of Angelou surrounded by flowers and quotes from her writings.

The poet proudly hung the piece, titled Maya's Quilt of Life, on a wall at her New York home, but it is now expected to go under the hammer for between $150,000 (£93,750) to $250,000 (£156,250).

The whole lot is estimated to sell for at least $400,000 (£250,000).