Dalai Lama’s Portrait of Enthronement Fetches £152,800 at Bonhams
The world of art and collectibles was abuzz recently with the news of a rare and significant auction at Bonhams in London. A portrait of the 14th Dalai Lama, related to his enthronement, painted by noted Indian artist Krishna Kanwal, was sold for a staggering £152,800. This remarkable artwork was part of a larger collection and personal archive of Sir Basil Gould, a British Political Officer who served in Sikkim, Bhutan, and Tibet from 1935 to 1945.
The portrait is a masterpiece of Indian art, showcasing the Dalai Lama’s serene and contemplative demeanor. Krishna Kanwal, the artist behind the portrait, was a renowned painter in India during the early 20th century. His works often featured themes of spirituality, mythology, and royalty, making this portrait a rare and unique addition to any art collection.
The Dalai Lama’s enthronement portrait is believed to have been painted in the 1940s, shortly after his ascension to the throne of Tibet. At the time, the Dalai Lama was just 15 years old, and his enthronement marked the beginning of a new era in Tibetan politics and spirituality. The portrait is a testament to the artist’s skill and the subject’s devotion to his spiritual practice.
Sir Basil Gould, the former British Political Officer, played a significant role in Tibetan politics during the early 20th century. He was stationed in Sikkim, Bhutan, and Tibet, serving as a liaison between the British government and the Tibetan monarchy. Gould’s collection and personal archive, which included the Dalai Lama’s enthronement portrait, was auctioned off by Bonhams in London.
The auction, which took place on June 25, 2020, featured a range of items from Gould’s collection, including rare books, manuscripts, and artworks. The Dalai Lama’s portrait was one of the highlight items, attracting significant interest from collectors and art enthusiasts around the world.
The sale of the portrait was a significant milestone in the world of art and collectibles. Not only is the Dalai Lama a revered figure in Tibetan Buddhism, but the portrait itself is a rare and significant work of Indian art. Krishna Kanwal’s style, which blended traditional Indian techniques with Western influences, is highly prized among art collectors and historians.
The auction result is a testament to the growing popularity of Indian art and collectibles on the global market. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in demand for Indian art, driven in part by the country’s growing economic influence and cultural exchange programs.
In a statement, Bonhams said, “The sale of the Dalai Lama’s enthronement portrait is a significant achievement for us, and we are thrilled to have been able to bring this rare and important artwork to market. The portrait is a stunning example of Indian art and a unique insight into the life and times of the Dalai Lama.”
For art enthusiasts and collectors, the sale of the Dalai Lama’s portrait is a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting cultural heritage. The portrait is not only a beautiful work of art but also a significant historical artifact, offering a glimpse into the life and times of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan monarchy.
As the art world continues to evolve and new markets emerge, it is exciting to think about the potential for future discoveries and sales. The Dalai Lama’s portrait is a reminder that even the most rare and significant artworks can find new homes and audiences, inspiring new generations of art lovers and collectors.
