The Legacy of Pascal Paoli: A Portrait Auctioned on His 300th Anniversary

A painting by Sir William Beechey, long sold as an anonymous "portrait of a man," is now recognized as a depiction of Pascal Paoli, the 18th-century Corsican independence leader. This portrait, which has remained unseen by the public for thirty years, is set to be auctioned in Corsica on December 13, 2025, coinciding with the 300th anniversary of Paoli's birth. Vincent Bronzini de Caraffa, the auctioneer, emphasized the painting's importance, stating it represents not just art but also the identity and ideals of Corsica, linking it to European freedom.

The Guardian

Pascal Paoli, known as U Babbu di a Patria (Father of the Fatherland), played a pivotal role in Corsican history. As the island's elected leader from 1755 to 1769, he declared Corsica an independent republic, founded a university, and established a representative democracy. His constitution was influenced by Enlightenment principles, earning him admiration from notable figures such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Samuel Johnson. Following the French invasion in 1768, Paoli led the resistance but was ultimately forced into exile in England.

The Guardian

The auction of the portrait marks a significant moment for Corsican heritage. De Caraffa noted that while there are other portraits of Paoli in museums, this particular work is the most significant. He expressed a desire for the painting to be seen by Corsicans before potentially leaving the island. The portrait, measuring 1.26 meters high, was completed shortly before Paoli's death in 1807. It has been described as a "silent witness" to the ideals of Enlightenment and European liberty.

The Guardian

Art expert Eric Turquin highlighted the changing dynamics of the art market, noting that Brexit has complicated the sale of such works, with London losing its status as the primary center for old masters. He remarked on the increased bureaucratic challenges that have emerged, impacting the flow of art sales. De Caraffa reflected on the historical ties between Corsica and England, suggesting that had circumstances been different, Corsica might have become a British territory.

The Guardian

Vincent Bronzini de Caraffa stated, “It is being sold in Corsica so it can be seen by Corsicans before it perhaps leaves the island.” He also noted the painting's cultural significance, asserting, “It is far more than a work of art.” Eric Turquin commented on the current state of the art market, saying, “Brexit was the last straw; for those in my field it was a major disaster.”

The Guardian

• “It is the silent witness, the last message of an Enlightenment man who has become, through this portrait, one of the most noble faces of European liberty,” — Vincent Bronzini de Caraffa, Auctioneer

The Guardian

• “Eric Turquin, an art expert and French auctioneer, said: “Fifteen years ago this painting would have gone directly to London to be sold.” — Eric Turquin, Art Expert

The Guardian

The upcoming auction not only serves as a platform for the sale of a significant historical artifact but also as a reminder of Pascal Paoli's enduring legacy in Corsican and European history.

The Guardian