A striking oil portrait of Mahatma Gandhi, crafted in 1931 during his visit to the UK, is slated for auction in London next month. The piece, painted by British artist Clare Leighton, holds the distinction of being the only oil portrait for which Gandhi actually posed, according to auction house Bonhams.
Gandhi, revered in India as the "father of the nation," is renowned for his leadership in the non-violent resistance movement against British colonial rule. This portrait was created while Gandhi attended the second Round Table Conference in London, where key discussions on constitutional reforms for India were actively taking place.
Caspar Leighton, a great-nephew of the artist, emphasized the artwork's historic and cultural importance, expressing hopes for it to be appreciated by a wider audience across the globe. Leighton was one of the few artists allowed intimate access to Gandhi, enabling her to capture multiple sketches and paintings during their time together.
The significance of this painting extends beyond its artistic value; it also encapsulates a crucial moment in India's fight for self-governance and independence. Leighton previously exhibited her portraits of Gandhi at the Albany Galleries in London in November 1931, attended by several prominent figures from the Indian delegation, including renowned independence leader Sarojini Naidu.
A notable description from British journalist Winifred Holtby encapsulated the essence of Gandhi's character, depicting him as "the little man squats bare-headed, in his blanket, one finger raised," embodying his purposeful demeanor. Histories suggest that Gandhi's personal secretary praised the resemblance of the oil portrait shortly after its exhibition.
The artwork remained largely obscure until a 1978 showcase by the Boston Public Library, during which it was reported to have suffered damage from an attack in the 1970s, allegedly by a right-wing Hindu activist. As the backdrop of Gandhi's life was marred by divisiveness and conflict, eventually leading to his assassination in 1948, this portrait stands as a powerful reminder of his legacy and the rich cultural history that continues to inspire people around the world. The upcoming auction at Bonhams will take place in the second week of July.
