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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle
Simon Sebag Montefiore

We can’t let Joshua Reynolds’ magnificent Portrait of Omai leave the UK

Joshua Reynolds Mai United Kingdom Edmund Burke George III National Portrait Gallery Nicholas Cullinan London Art Fund Polynesia
detail from Portrait of Omai by Joshua Reynolds
‘One of the most important, influential portraits in the history of British art’ … detail from Portrait of Omai by Joshua Reynolds Photograph: Alamy

Omai by Sir Joshua Reynolds is a painting so special that it is unthinkable that it could ever leave the UK. When I was taken to see it recently by National Portrait Gallery director Nicholas Cullinan I was left stunned. Seeing it where it currently hangs in the gallery, which is undergoing a refit to reopen on 22 June, is a breathtaking experience. It showcases the genius of Reynolds at the height of his powers.

And yet not long ago it looked like we might lose it. The National Portrait Gallery has been fighting for a way to keep it in this country, to be enjoyed by future generations, but at times it looked like it could not be saved. Recently, however, we have started to believe it might be possible. Yet more help is needed.

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