Spencer estate sells Rubens masterpiece for £9m
12 April 2012
A Rubens masterpiece that has hung in the family home of the late Princess Diana for more than two centuries has sold for in excess of £9 million.
The auction was the first in a series to fund repairs and secure the future of Earl Spencer's estate, Althorp in Northamptonshire.
The painting, A Commander being armed for Battle by Sir Peter Paul Rubens, was the top lot. It was bought by the Spencers in 1802.
It had an estimate of £8 million to £12 million before last night's sale at Christie's. It was bought by an anonymous bidder.
An attic sale of items from the estate as diverse as skis and jelly moulds began today.
