Rare WWI Portrait of Indian Soldiers Faces Export from UK
A striking painting by famed artist Philip de László featuring two Indian cavalry officers from the First World War is on the brink of leaving the UK—unless a local buyer steps in.
Epic History Captured on Canvas
The unfinished portrait, valued at a hefty £650,000, shows Risaldar Jagat Singh and Risaldar Man Singh. These junior troop commanders in the British Indian Army’s Expeditionary Force fought in the brutal Battle of the Somme and are believed to have died in combat.
The soldiers posed for de László in London just two months before shipping off to the trenches in France. Paintings like this are incredibly rare, spotlighting active Indian soldiers from the First World War.
A Painting That Tells a Powerful Story
This artwork isn’t just a portrait; it’s a key piece of British history. It captures a time when soldiers from across the Empire fought side-by-side in Europe. The painting stayed in de László’s studio until his death in 1937, likely a personal treasure for the artist.
Arts and Heritage Minister Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay said:
“This wonderful and sensitive portrait captures an important moment in our history as soldiers were drawn from across the globe to help fight in the trenches of the First World War. I hope this magnificent painting can remain in the UK to help tell the story of those brave soldiers and the contribution they and so many others made to Allied victory.”
Experts Rally to Keep the Painting in Britain
The Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art has slapped an export bar on the painting to give UK institutions time to buy it.
Committee Member Peter Barber commented:
“Philip de László was one of Britain’s most celebrated society portrait painters. But this unfinished, deeply emotional portrait offers a rare glimpse of two ‘ordinary’ Sikh soldiers heading to the Battle of the Somme. The vital role of Indian troops in WWI has often been overlooked, and this painting helps bring their stories to light.”
“The painting also explores themes of British identity. De László, a Hungarian Jew who made a life in British high society, likely identified with these outsider soldiers serving loyally despite discrimination. This portrait, left in his studio until his passing, is one of his most personal works.”
“It deserves to stay in the UK to educate, inspire, and be savoured by future generations.”
Countdown Begins to Save a National Treasure
The export licence decision is paused until 13 July 2023. After that, UK buyers have 15 business days to snap it up at £650,000 plus VAT, which eligible institutions can reclaim. A second deferral of three months kicks in once an Option Agreement is signed.
This is a rare chance to keep a priceless slice of history on home turf. Will the UK rise to the occasion and save this extraordinary tribute to bravery and sacrifice?
