Philanthropist’s art collection sells for almost £1m

The sale of an internet entrepreneur and philanthropist’s art collection has raised almost £1 million, most of which will go to a foundation supporting creative people.

The sale of the late Hugo Burge’s collection featured more than 300 lots including an etching by Dutch Old Master Rembrandt van Rijn which sold for £225,200 including buyer’s premium.

In total the sale, which took place at Lyon & Turnbull in Edinburgh on Wednesday, raised £956,505.

The majority of this will go to the Hugo Burge Foundation which aims to support and inspire creativity across the UK.

Gavin Strang, managing director of Lyon & Turnbull, said: “There was a huge amount of interest in the wide-ranging sale.

“Hugo had immaculate taste and it was a privilege to be be tasked with this auction of highlights from his collection.

“The interest in the range of works is testament to Hugo’s legacy as a collector and as a patron.

“The work now being done by the charity which now runs in his name is vital for the creative sector in today’s challenging climate. We are absolutely delighted with the overall result.”

Other items auctioned included a side table by renowned architect the late Sir Edwin Lutyens, which went for £35,200, and a painting by Scottish artist Alison Watt which sold for £16,380.

The Hugo Burge Foundation was established by Mr Burge in 2019 and was later renamed in his honour.

It offers awards, hosts events, runs courses and funds apprenticeships, providing free studios and workspaces for artists and craftspeople in the Scottish Borders.