Gandhi Portrait Auction: A Historical Treasure's Financial Triumph

The recent auction of Clare Leighton's 1931 portrait of Mahatma Gandhi has sent ripples through the art world, highlighting the enduring value of historical artifacts. The painting, sold at Bonhams in London on July 15, 2025, fetched £152,800, a price that far exceeded initial estimates. This remarkable sum underscores the portrait's significance, not just as a work of art, but as a tangible link to a pivotal figure in history. The fact that the painting is believed to be the only oil portrait for which Gandhi personally sat adds to its unique appeal. The sale price of approximately $204,800, or roughly 1.75 crore rupees, reflects the global interest in Gandhi's legacy and the enduring power of his image. This event also marks the first time the portrait has been offered at auction, making it a landmark moment for collectors and historians alike.