The oil portrait of Mahatma Gandhi, painted in the UK in 1931, is gearing up for auction at Bonhams in London next month. This piece is exceptionally significant as it's believed to be the only oil portrait that Gandhi himself sat for. Gandhi, revered as the “father of the nation” in India, spearheaded a non-violent struggle against British colonial rule, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire millions across the globe.
Clare Leighton, the British artist behind the painting, made this portrait during Gandhi's visit to London for the second Round Table Conference, where discussions about India’s constitutional reforms took place. A family member of Leighton articulates the potential for the painting to reach a wider audience, emphasizing its historical value.
The artistic connection to Gandhi emerged through Leighton's relationship with British journalist Henry Noel Brailsford, an advocate for Indian independence. Despite not being able to attend the exhibition where her work was first showcased, Gandhi was acknowledged by others in attendance, such as the influential Sarojini Naidu.
The portrait's journey has not been without controversy; it allegedly suffered damage in a knife attack in the 1970s, purportedly at the hands of a right-wing activist. The details of this attack remain murky. Nevertheless, the artwork showcases Gandhi in a moment of quiet contemplation, underscoring the complexity of his legacy, which includes both admiration and critique, particularly after his assassination in 1948. Now, as the date of auction approaches, the painting stands as a remarkable piece of history with ties to a tumultuous past.
Clare Leighton, the British artist behind the painting, made this portrait during Gandhi's visit to London for the second Round Table Conference, where discussions about India’s constitutional reforms took place. A family member of Leighton articulates the potential for the painting to reach a wider audience, emphasizing its historical value.
The artistic connection to Gandhi emerged through Leighton's relationship with British journalist Henry Noel Brailsford, an advocate for Indian independence. Despite not being able to attend the exhibition where her work was first showcased, Gandhi was acknowledged by others in attendance, such as the influential Sarojini Naidu.
The portrait's journey has not been without controversy; it allegedly suffered damage in a knife attack in the 1970s, purportedly at the hands of a right-wing activist. The details of this attack remain murky. Nevertheless, the artwork showcases Gandhi in a moment of quiet contemplation, underscoring the complexity of his legacy, which includes both admiration and critique, particularly after his assassination in 1948. Now, as the date of auction approaches, the painting stands as a remarkable piece of history with ties to a tumultuous past.
