Rediscovery of Robert Burns' Lost Portrait by Henry Raeburn

A long-lost portrait of Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet, painted by Sir Henry Raeburn, has been rediscovered after more than 200 years. The painting, commissioned in 1803, was found during a house clearance in Surrey, England, and auctioned in March 2025 for £68,000 (approximately $92,000). This significant artwork is now on public display at the National Galleries of Scotland in Edinburgh, coinciding with the annual Burns Night celebrations on January 25.

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The portrait was commissioned by publishers Cadell and Davies as a new image of Burns, intended for engravings in future editions of his works. The original portrait by Alexander Nasmyth, painted in 1787, became the template for Raeburn’s work. However, after its completion, the Raeburn portrait vanished without a trace, leading to a 200-year mystery surrounding its whereabouts.

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Dr. William Zachs, a Burns scholar and director of the Blackie House Library and Museum in Edinburgh, played a crucial role in the portrait's rediscovery. Zachs recognized the potential significance of the painting when he encountered it at an auction. His expertise and dedication to Burns’ legacy fueled his determination to acquire the artwork, which he believed could be the elusive Raeburn portrait.

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The painting was initially estimated to sell for £300 to £500 but attracted significant interest, culminating in a bidding war that pushed the final price to £68,000. Following the auction, the portrait underwent cleaning and expert examination, confirming its attribution to Raeburn. Lesley Stevenson, senior conservator at the National Galleries of Scotland, praised the painting for its “expressive, seemingly effortless brushwork” and its ability to capture the essence of Burns.

‘Once-in-a-lifetime discovery’: Sir Henry Raeburn’s missing portrait of Robert Burns is found after 220 years

The rediscovery of this portrait is deemed a “once-in-a-lifetime discovery,” linking Burns to one of Scotland’s greatest artists. Experts believe that Raeburn’s portrayal of Burns not only enhances the poet’s legacy but also provides a fresh visual connection to his enduring influence on Scottish culture. The painting will be displayed alongside Nasmyth’s original portrait, allowing visitors to compare the two representations of Burns.

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Dr. Zachs remarked, “Now we have a new immortal visual memory – a once lost painting by Sir Henry Raeburn, depicting Robert Burns not just as a genius poet but as a celebrated Scotsman.” Duncan Thomson, former keeper of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, emphasized the significance of the rediscovery, stating, “The rediscovery of this portrait of Burns, after having disappeared for 200 years, is of enormous significance, linking the poet with Scotland’s greatest artist.”

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• “This is a significant discovery and one we can all celebrate.” — Lesley Stevenson, Senior Conservator, National Galleries of Scotland

Long-lost portrait of Scotland’s national bard on public display for first time

• “The rediscovery of this portrait is of enormous significance, linking the poet with Scotland’s greatest artist.” — Duncan Thomson, Former Keeper, Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Long lost portrait of Scotland’s great poet Robert Burns goes on show for first time

After its exhibition at the National Galleries of Scotland, the portrait will tour to the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway, South Ayrshire, starting July 21, 2026. This journey continues to celebrate Burns’ legacy and the artistry of Henry Raeburn, further embedding their contributions into Scotland’s cultural narrative.

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