STORY
The Government has temporarily prevented a Rembrandt portrait valued at more than £71 million from leaving the UK, giving a British gallery or institution an opportunity to acquire it. Portrait of Catrina Hooghsaet, painted in 1657, has been displayed in the UK since the middle of the eighteenth century.
The work depicts an affluent member of Amsterdam’s Mennonite community who lived separately from her husband. The Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art said the portrait was important for understanding Rembrandt’s work, Dutch social relations and the history of portrait painting and art collecting in Britain. It is the most valuable object to have been given national treasure status under the export bar system.
A decision on the export licence has been deferred until 26 December 2026, allowing potential purchasers time to raise the recommended price of £71,696,324.90, plus VAT of £754,698.15. Arts Minister Ruth Mackenzie called upon cultural organisations, funders and philanthropists to help retain the painting in the UK and keep it on public display.