30/04/2026
Did you know this painting was stolen by Dr. No! Check out Episode 001 to find out more. 🖼️🔎
This portrait went on display in August 1961, but just 19 days later it vanished… 😲
Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington, was born on 1 May 1769. Spanish painter Francisco de Goya’s portrait of the illustrious British commander was created following his defeat of Napoleon’s French forces in 1812.
Goya depicts Wellington against a simple background, placing all the focus on his impressive display of military medals and sashes. Around his neck, he wears the Order of the Golden Fleece (a prestigious chivalric order) and the Military Gold Cross, suspended on a pink and blue ribbon. Wellington was a short man, and Goya paints him in an upright pose with his head held high, as if wishing to appear taller.
The painting was acquired for the Gallery in 1961 and was placed on display that summer to much fanfare. However, less than a month later, it was stolen. In 1965, four years after the theft, the painting mysteriously turned up in the left luggage office of Birmingham New Street station. You can now find it on display in Room 38: https://bit.ly/3sp4xid
