Winston Churchill painting to be auctioned by Christie’s

A rare still life painting by former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, titled ‘Amaryllis Lily’, is set to be auctioned by Christie’s on October 21 as part of the ‘Modern British and Irish Art’ sale. The 1948 work depicts a red amaryllis in a pot against a dark background and is estimated to fetch between £300,000 and £500,000.

The painting was previously gifted by Churchill to his youngest daughter, Lady Mary Soames, who donated it to the Churchill Fellowship in 1995. Proceeds from the auction will fund the foundation’s ‘Making Space for the Arts’ program.

Experts note the piece reflects the influence of artist William Nicholson, who served as Churchill’s mentor. The two frequently painted together at Chartwell Manor.