- Export bar is to allow time for a UK gallery or institution to acquire the painting
- West is famed for The Death of Nelson and this painting shows the evolution of cricket from a rustic to noble sport during the 1700s
The Cricketers (Ralph Izard & Friends) by Benjamin West is at risk of leaving the country unless a buyer can be found.
The Cricketers shows five wealthy American men playing cricket, possibly at Kew, while visiting the UK to study in the 1700s.
The painting is regarded as one of the most important works depicting early cricket and shows that by the 1750s the sport had evolved from the rustic game played in the 1720s to one taken up by the aristocracy.
West is best known for his work The Death of Nelson which shows the great British naval hero Lord Nelson on the deck of his ship, Victory, at the Battle of Trafalgar.
Arts Minister Stuart Andrew said:
Cricket is enjoyed by millions of people across the world and this fascinating painting tells the story of the rise of the sport during the 18th century.
It is a wonderful and rare depiction of the early…
