The sale attracted attention due to both its historical significance and the unexpected final bid, marking a notable moment in the art world and for collectors of Indian heritage. Bonhams has not disclosed the identity of the buyer or any plans for the painting's exhibition.
Rare Gandhi Portrait Fetches Over $200,000 at Auction
Rare Gandhi Portrait Fetches Over $200,000 at Auction
A historic oil painting of Mahatma Gandhi sold for a surprising price, exceeding initial expectations.
A rare oil portrait of Mahatma Gandhi, painted in 1931, has sold for £152,800 ($204,648) at Bonhams auction house in London. This amount far surpassed the estimated range of £50,000-£70,000. The portrait, created by British artist Clare Leighton during Gandhi's visit to London for the second Round Table Conference, is believed to be the only oil portrait for which Gandhi posed. Known as the "father of the nation" in India, Gandhi's non-violent resistance movement has had a lasting impact worldwide. The painting remained in Leighton's family's collection until recently, and its future display remains uncertain.
