The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Monarch to be displayed in Perth
A visit from the Monarch of the Glen could strengthen Perth’s case for the UK City of Culture crown.
The 1851 masterpiece by Sir Edwin Landseer will go on display in the Fair City this winter.
The painting of the stag in the Highlands is one of Britain’s most iconic artworks.
It was on loan to the National Museum of Scotland for 20 years before its owners, Diageo, decided to put it up for sale.
The move sparked fears it could leave the country and a fundraising campaign was launched to keep it in Scotland.
Eventually a deal was struck between Diageo and the National Galleries of Scotland to sell the painting for less than half of its £10 million valuation.
Now it is being prepared for a nationwide tour, with Perth Museum and Art Gallery one of four stops on the circuit.
It will also go to City of Culture rival Paisley, as well as Inverness and Kirkcudbright.
The tour is being paid for by the Scottish Government and the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Helen Smout, chief executive of Culture Perth and Kinross, said: “This underlines Perth’s ability to host these big-name travelling exhibitions and consolidates our credentials as a serious contender for the UK City of Culture status.
“I am sure the Monarch of the Glen will be a big draw for art lovers across Perthshire and beyond.”
Sir John Leighton, director general of the National Galleries of Scotland, said he was thrilled to be able to show the Monarch of the Glen to as many people as possible.
The Monarch of the Glen will arrive in the Perth on November 25 for a seven-week run.
I am sure the Monarch of the Glen will beabigdraw for art lovers across Perthshire and beyond. HELEN SMOUT