WHY are we making such a fuss about some Old Master paintings? What is so special about some old canvas and paint that has aged for about 450 years and why should the Scottish public be willing to pay vast amounts of money to own these objects?
T
he claims surrounding the two paintings by Titian from the Bridgewater collection could be mistaken for (yet) more hype from the art world – a realm not known for understatement or restraint.
Yet this is different, very different. These works of art really do belong in a class of their own and they are important to all of us.
In support of this, I could argue that these paintings are among the finest made by one of the greatest artists that ever lived; but I would not expect everyone to be moved by such claims. I could argue that the effort to secure the rest of the Bridgewater collection on loan to Scotland is crucial for the quality of our national collections; but, again, I would understand if some people are more passionate about this than others.
There are many other arguments I could call on to back up my claims; arguments about the importance of these treasures to our heritage and how they have inspired countless artists, students and visitors in the 60 years or so that they have been on view here; I could produce evidence about the economic benefits of our great collections and how they help to promote tourism as well as the reputation of Scotland abroad.
All of this is up for discussion and debate, but there is surely one key point on which everyone might agree. I imagine that we all want Scotland to be associated with the very best in every walk of life from industry and commerce through to sport, culture and heritage.
We have many good and some great works of art in our national collections but only a handful that could truly be described as icons with a resonance and fame that stretches right across the world. These paintings by Titian count among the very best. For centuries they have been widely recognised as highlights of Western European painting. Some commentators have placed Titian's Diana and Actaeon among the top 50 works of art of any kind on the planet.
I would like the public to be able to own this supreme masterpiece and to feel proud that it is here on view to all. I would like our children, our grandchildren and generations long into the future to be able to admire and enjoy these works here, in this country.
We cannot easily put a price on the benefits of education, inspiration, enjoyment and pride. But, seen against the enrichment of this and future generations, then the investment in these works begins to look like more of a bargain.
John Leighton is the Director-General of the National Galleries of Scotland
The full article contains 508 words and appears in Edinburgh Evening News newspaper.
