Historic Gandhi Portrait Fetches Record Price at Bonhams Auction
A rare and evocative oil painting of Mahatma Gandhi, believed to be the only portrait for which the revered Indian leader personally sat, has captured the art world's imagination and sold for an impressive £152,800 (approximately Rs 1.7 crore) at an online auction hosted by Bonhams.
Behind the Portrait: Clare Leighton and Gandhi’s 1931 Meeting
The painting was created by British artist Clare Leighton during Gandhi’s visit to London in 1931 for the Second Round Table Conference, a pivotal moment in the Indian independence movement. Leighton, known for her sensitive and realistic depictions, was introduced to Gandhi through her partner Henry Noel Brailsford, a noted political journalist and ardent supporter of India’s struggle for freedom.
Unlike many artists who relied on photographs or imagination, Leighton had the rare privilege of sitting with Gandhi in his office to capture his likeness first-hand. This intimate access bestows the portrait with unmatched authenticity, making it a unique historical artifact.
Record-Breaking Sale and Restoration History
The portrait was the centerpiece of Bonhams’ Travel and Exploration sale, where it soared far beyond its initial estimate of £50,000-£70,000 (Rs 57-80 lakh), ultimately selling for more than three times the projected value.
Interestingly, the painting has endured a turbulent history. In 1974, it was displayed publicly when reportedly attacked by a Hindu right-wing activist. Restoration efforts have been made to repair tears inflicted in this incident, underscoring the portrait’s resilience and enduring symbolic power.
A Glimpse Into Gandhi's Persona Through the Artist’s Eyes
When the portrait was previously exhibited at the Albany Galleries in London in November 1931, it attracted notable attention. Journalist Winifred Holtby, attending the exhibit, beautifully described Gandhi's posture and expression: "The little man squats bare-headed, in his blanket, one finger raised, as it often is to emphasise a point, his lips parted for a word that is almost a smile… the statesman who knows just how to play on the psychology of friends and enemies alike." This description captures the gentle yet formidable spirit of Gandhi that Leighton immortalized on canvas.
Expert Insight: Why This Portrait Matters Today
This sale underlines the continued global fascination with Gandhi, not just as a political figure but as a cultural icon. Art and history intertwine here to illuminate a personal moment rarely documented visually — Gandhi's on-site sitting for an artist.
From a policy perspective, this portrait’s story revives conversation about cultural heritage preservation, political violence against art, and the narratives we prioritize in post-colonial histories.
Underreported Narratives and Questions Raised
- How do artworks like this shape contemporary understanding of historic figures beyond textbooks?
- What role do personal relationships and political alliances play in defining historical legacies?
- How can continued restoration and protection of politically significant art serve as a bridge between past and present social justice struggles?
Conclusion: A Timeless Tribute to a Global Icon
The sale of Clare Leighton’s Gandhi portrait is not merely a commercial transaction but a reaffirmation of Gandhi’s enduring influence worldwide. It opens doors to renewed appreciation of art as a medium capturing history’s most profound personalities and moments.
Editor’s Note: As this rare portrait changes hands, it invites us to reflect on the intersections of art, politics, and memory. It reminds us that behind every historic figure lies human complexity — captured here through the gaze of an artist who witnessed Gandhi up close. What stories do the artifacts we preserve tell about the times we live in, and those that came before?
