Petition launched to postpone the sale of Russborough House paintings

Head of a Bearded Man by Rubens is valued at up to £3m

Over 1,200 people have signed an online petition to postpone the sale of the Old Masters paintings from Russborough House in Co Wicklow.

Recently, the Alfred Beit Foundation, which is the trustee of the Georgian house and its contents, asked London auctioneers Christie’s to sell eight paintings in its collection. The foundation said it was in urgent need of funds for the upkeep of the stately home. Top lots in the sale include ...