In an extraordinary auction event held in London, a rare oil portrait of Mahatma Gandhi has been sold for an impressive £152,800, equivalent to $204,648. This sale marks a remarkable triumph, soaring above auction house Bonhams’ initial estimate of £50,000-£70,000. The portrait, painted in 1931 by renowned British artist Clare Leighton, captures Gandhi during his visit to London for the second Round Table conference aimed at discussing constitutional reforms for India.
Bonhams has indicated that this portrait may be the only one where Gandhi sat for the artist, as he led a pivotal non-violent resistance movement against British colonial rule, earning deep reverence among Indians who consider him the "father of the nation." Clare Leighton was among the privileged few permitted access to Gandhi, allowing her to sketch and paint his likeness through multiple sessions.
Following Leighton's death in 1989, the painting remained within her family until it was auctioned. The identity of the buyer has not been disclosed, leaving questions about the potential display of this historical artwork, which holds significance not just in India, but around the world.
Bonhams has indicated that this portrait may be the only one where Gandhi sat for the artist, as he led a pivotal non-violent resistance movement against British colonial rule, earning deep reverence among Indians who consider him the "father of the nation." Clare Leighton was among the privileged few permitted access to Gandhi, allowing her to sketch and paint his likeness through multiple sessions.
Following Leighton's death in 1989, the painting remained within her family until it was auctioned. The identity of the buyer has not been disclosed, leaving questions about the potential display of this historical artwork, which holds significance not just in India, but around the world.
