The 17th century portraits of Jacob and his brothers by Spanish artist Francisco de Zurbarán, which were under threat of being sold by the Church Commissioners, will now remain where they have hung since 1756.
The intention is for Auckland Castle, the home of the Bishop of Durham, to become a leading public heritage site, bringing tourism and economic regeneration to the North East. Partners include the Art Fund, Durham County Council, the National Trust, the Department for Media, Culture and Sport, and the National Gallery about the broader future for Auckland Castle and the paintings within.
I am delighted the collection of Zurbarans won't be sold off to the highest bidder and perhaps broken up. But what a disgrace that they had to be "rescued" by a private investment manager. The Zurbarans are, in my humble opinion, national treasures.
ReplyDeleteI don't mind that Auckland Castle will become a leading public heritage site, bringing tourism and economic regeneration to the North East. I don't mind if they have to sell fairy floss and devonshire teas. Whatever it takes.
Hels --
ReplyDeleteI take just the opposite view.
As the paintings were originally acquired in 1756 (for £125) by a previous bishop after they were seized at sea from their rightful owner, it is only fitting that a modern buccaneer rescue them once again.