In brief
A rare oil portrait of Indian leader Mahatma Gandhi has made headlines after selling for £152,800 ($204,648) at Bonhams auction in London, surpassing pre-auction estimates of £50,000-£70,000. Created by British artist Clare Leighton during Gandhi's visit for the Round Table Conference in 1931, it is purportedly the only oil portrait for which Gandhi sat. The painting remained with Leighton's family until its recent auction, but details about the buyer and future display plans remain undisclosed.
The portrait represents a significant piece of history, reflecting Gandhi's pivotal role in India's fight for independence and his influence as a proponent of non-violence. Bonhams noted that Leighton was among a select group of artists allowed to spend time with Gandhi, which allowed her to create this unique portrayal. While the buyer's identity is not revealed, the sale of such a historical piece adds value to discussions surrounding art, history, and cultural heritage, especially in the context of India's freedom movement and Gandhi's lasting legacy.
