Two paintings by the 18th-century Italian artist Agostino Brunias, both depicting scenes from the Caribbean island of St Vincent, have been placed under temporary export bars to give UK

institutions an opportunity to acquire them.

The artworks, which reflect colonial perspectives of the British Empire, include Sir William Young Conducting a Treaty with the Black Caribs on the Island of St Vincent and A Family of Charaibes in the Island of St Vincent. The first portrays the signing of a treaty between British officials and the island’s Indigenous population, while the second captures aspects of Indigenous life.

The decision to delay export was made by the UK Government following a recommendation from the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest. The Committee found that the treaty painting met the first and third Waverley criteria due to its strong connection to British history and national life. The second painting was deemed significant under the third criterion for its relevance to the study of slavery and colonialism.

The export licence applications for both paintings will be deferred until 15 July 2025. If a UK institution expresses interest in purchasing one or both artworks during this time, the owners will have a further 15 business days to consider any offers.

Sir William Young Conducting a Treaty with the Black Caribs is valued at £240,000 (plus £8,000 VAT), while A Family of Charaibes is priced at £180,000 (plus £6,000 VAT). If an Option Agreement is signed, a second deferral period of three months will begin to allow for final negotiations. Photo by Museum Saint George`s (Grenada), Wikimedia commons.