The auction scene in London was electrified as a rare oil portrait of Mahatma Gandhi, painted in 1931 by British artist Clare Leighton, sold for £152,800 (approximately $204,648). The amount far exceeded the expected price range of £50,000-£70,000 set by Bonhams auction house. This portrait is notable for being the only oil painting of Gandhi for which he personally posed.
Gandhi, celebrated as the "father of the nation" in India, was instrumental in leading a peaceful resistance movement against British colonial rule. This portrait was created during his visit to London for the second Round Table conference, which aimed to discuss India's self-governance and constitutional reforms.
Bonhams revealed that Leighton was among the select few artists permitted into Gandhi's office and was able to sketch and paint him on several occasions. After remaining in Leighton's personal collection until her death in 1989, the painting was inherited by her family before being auctioned.
While Bonhams did not disclose the identity of the buyer or plans for the painting's future display, the sale marks a significant moment in art and history, reflecting on Gandhi's enduring legacy.
Gandhi, celebrated as the "father of the nation" in India, was instrumental in leading a peaceful resistance movement against British colonial rule. This portrait was created during his visit to London for the second Round Table conference, which aimed to discuss India's self-governance and constitutional reforms.
Bonhams revealed that Leighton was among the select few artists permitted into Gandhi's office and was able to sketch and paint him on several occasions. After remaining in Leighton's personal collection until her death in 1989, the painting was inherited by her family before being auctioned.
While Bonhams did not disclose the identity of the buyer or plans for the painting's future display, the sale marks a significant moment in art and history, reflecting on Gandhi's enduring legacy.
