Eve - Ealing's 'Treasure' - Sold For £600,000

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Council owned painting sold at Christie's

The controversial sale of a valuable art work donated to Ealing in 1946 by the artist's widow went ahead at Christie's auction house today.

The Birth of Eve, painted by Solomon J Solomon, went under the hammer and was sold for £600,000. Details of the buyer haven't been revealed.

The Pre-Raphaelite painting had been kept in Hanwell Library until 2007, but was removed because it was not being cared for properly.

Council leader Jason Stacey said Ealing wasn't equipped to look after the painting and, having failed to get it placed in various galleries including the Tate, recommended it be put up for sale.

The sale has been criticised by Ealing North MP Steve Pound who  described it as ''the death of culture in Ealing.''

Funds raised have been earmarked for arts and culture in the borough.

 

 

 

December 16th, 2009