A temporary export bar has been imposed on a rare painting by Italian Renaissance master Sandro Botticelli, currently at risk of leaving the UK. Valued at £10.2 million, the painting,

The Virgin and Child Enthroned, offers a glimpse into Botticelli’s early artistic development and could be a major addition to UK public collections if acquired by a national institution.

Dating from the early 1470s, the painting depicts the Virgin Mary with the Christ Child and demonstrates Botticelli’s remarkable blend of delicate human emotion and spiritual presence. It features compositional elements and facial detailing similar to those seen in his later masterpieces like Primavera and The Birth of Venus.

Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant described the work as “a perfect example of Botticelli’s genius” and expressed hope that a UK gallery would step forward to acquire it so the public can enjoy it for generations. Art expert and Reviewing Committee member Christopher Baker highlighted the painting’s historical and devotional value, noting its significance for understanding Botticelli’s early career and its potential to inspire further research into his workshop and broader Florentine artistic culture.

The painting has been in Britain since 1904 when it was acquired by Lady Wantage and became part of the esteemed Lloyd collection. Its historical ties to the UK and artistic importance were key reasons for the export bar, which was recommended by the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest (RCEWA). The Committee determined that the painting meets the third Waverley criterion due to its outstanding significance to the study of Western art, Botticelli’s influence, and the history of collecting.

The export decision has been deferred until 8 August 2025, giving UK institutions time to raise the purchase price of £9,960,000 (plus reclaimable VAT of £272,000). If a serious offer is made during this first deferral period, the owners will have 15 business days to consider it. A second deferral period of six months would follow upon the signing of an Option Agreement.

The government also encourages potential acquisitions through private treaty sales, which can offer considerable financial advantages to public institutions aiming to secure culturally significant artworks. Photo by Wikimedia commons.