Portrait of Sir Edward Monins makes a million

Portrait of Sir Edward Monins of Waldershare by George Gower achieved £1.1 million at Bonhams’ recent Old Master Paintings Sale at New Bond Street, London. The work had a pre-sale estimate of £200,000 – 300,000.

The painting, which had never been offered at auction before, had remained in the same family since 1575.

The Old Master Picture sale reached its zenith as the gavel came down on George Gower’s Portrait of Sir Edward Monins of Waldershare (1575). Depicting a newly knighted aristocrat and close associate of Queen Elizabeth I, the portrait is a masterclass in Elizabethan iconography and symbolism. Painted in 1575, this richly detailed work is a rare example of Gower’s early career and a powerful symbol of status, allegiance, and royal favour at the height of Elizabeth I’s reign.

Lisa Greaves, Head of Department for Old Master Paintings, said: “We are delighted with the results from today’s sale, and especially the result of George Gower’s Portrait of Sir Edward Monins. It is rare that a work of this quality and significance comes on to the market and it is no wonder that it excited collectors.”