National treasure returns... a century later: Gainsborough's famous The Blue Boy painting will come back to its homeland after 100 years in the US
There was an outcry when it was sold to an overseas buyer in 1922. Now Thomas Gainsborough's The Blue Boy will finally return to its homeland 100 years since it was last seen in the UK.
The oil on canvas will go on display at the National Gallery from January 25 next year, marking an 'unprecedented' four-month loan from a gallery in the US.
The portrait, which shows a boy in a blue jacket and pantaloons, was originally unveiled at the Royal Academy in 1770. However, it has been on display at The Huntington in California for the past century after it was sold to the museum's founder, a railroad tycoon.
The picture has remained influential with references in films such as Quentin Tarantino's Oscar winner Django Unchained.
People looking at the Blue Boy, painted in 1770 by Thomas Gainsborough. The painting is to return to the National Gallery one hundred years to the day since it was last displayed there, the gallery has announced
Dr Gabriele Finaldi, Director of the National Gallery, described the portrait as a 'masterpiece of British art' and said its return to the London gallery is 'truly exceptional' and a 'unique opportunity for visitors to see Gainsborough at his dazzling best'.
He added: 'Rich in historical resonances, a painting of supreme poise and elegance, The Blue Boy is without doubt a masterpiece of British art.'
Karen R. Lawrence, Huntington president, said: 'This masterpiece has made an indelible mark on both art history and popular culture, capturing the imaginations of a wide range of audiences.
'Given The Blue Boy's iconic status at The Huntington, this is an unprecedented loan, one which we considered very carefully.
'We hope that this partnership with the National Gallery will spark new conversations, appreciation and research on both sides of the Atlantic.'
The Blue Boy will be part of a free exhibition in Room 46 which will also include a 'select group of paintings that demonstrate the profound influence of Van Dyck on Gainsborough's practice and identity'.
The National Gallery threw open its doors to visitors in May after 152 days of closure, with strict Covid guidelines in place to allow a safe return.