Minister Steps In to Preserve Iconic Edward the Black Prince Bust in the UK

The UK Government has taken action to ensure the preservation of a bust depicting Prince Edward of Woodstock (1330–1376), commonly referred to as The Black Prince, within the country. This initiative aims to allow a UK gallery or institution the opportunity to acquire this significant national treasure.

Edward, celebrated as a remarkable medieval military leader during The Hundred Years War, was the son of King Edward III of England. His notable victories included the Battle of Poitiers in 1356, and he is thought to have earned the moniker The Black Prince due to the hue of his armour.

This bust is part of a collection of eighteenth-century representations of Edward the Black Prince, which have shaped the public’s perception of him. Since its creation nearly three centuries ago, this iconic likeness has been reproduced numerous times, establishing itself as the definitive portrayal of this important historical figure.

The government has instituted a temporary export ban on the sculpture to keep it accessible to the public in the UK. This deferral period is intended to provide museums and galleries the necessary time to gather funds for its acquisition, potentially through philanthropic contributions, or for a private collector to buy it and donate it to the nation.

Artistic Significance and Historical Context

Created circa 1735, the bust is the work of renowned Flemish sculptor Michael Rysbrack, who is known for his significant contributions to portraiture and architectural decoration during his time in England.

Heritage Minister Baroness Twycross expressed her views on the sculpture, stating that it continues to influence how the legendary figure of Edward the Black Prince is perceived within British history. She emphasised its role in narrating the story of medieval England and expressed hope that it could continue to do so powerfully in a public gallery for many years to come.

Stuart Lochhead, a member of the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest, highlighted Rysbrack’s importance as a sculptor in eighteenth-century Britain. He noted that this exquisite marble bust of Edward served a specific purpose for Georgian patrons and the royal court, aiding in the establishment of a narrative of English kingship and chivalric values that would resonate through generations. Lochhead remarked on the bust’s significance as one of the finest and earliest examples of its genre, noting that its departure from the UK would represent a considerable loss to both scholarly research and our understanding of Georgian society.

Export Licence Deferral and Acquisition Opportunities

The Minister’s decision to defer the export licence application is based on the advice from the Reviewing Committee, which concluded that the bust meets the first and third Waverley criteria due to its exceptional connection to national history and its significance in the study of 18th-century British sculpture, particularly in relation to political propaganda and royal patronage.

The initial deferral period for the export licence is set to conclude on 5 February 2027. During this time, expressions of interest from potential purchasers will be welcomed, with the aim of securing the acquisition of the bust. Following this period, owners will have 15 business days to consider any offers at the recommended price of £496,044.51, plus VAT. A subsequent deferral period will commence after the signing of an Option Agreement and will extend for four months.

The Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest operates independently and is supported by Arts Council England. It provides guidance to the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport regarding the national importance of cultural objects intended for export.