Episcopal Press and News

Fate of Valuable Paintings at British Bishop's Palace Still Uncertain

Episcopal News Service. June 25, 2002 [2002-161-5]

The fate of valuable 17th century Spanish paintings that have been hanging in Auckland Castle in Durham, seat of the Church of England's diocesan bishop, is still uncertain. Plans to sell the historic paintings were blocked by a vigorous campaign by those who regard them as part of the region's cultural heritage.

The church's commissioners, responsible for investments, said that the paintings could not justify 'keeping these non-income producing assets.' The commission's responsibilities range from paying salaries for the bishops and some clergy pensions to supporting ministry in impoverished areas and settling the future of redundant churches. Since the church was caught in the financial troubles of the world's largest cell phone operator, Vodafone, it looked as though the paintings, valued at $15 million, might be rushed to market.

Vodafone has reported an annual loss of over $20 billion, the largest in British corporate history. The church's investment was only a small part of its $6 billion portfolio. A church spokesman, Arun Kataria, said that it was not necessary to sell the paintings' to 'meet current expenditure.' If the paintings were sold, he said that the proceeds 'would become capital, and the income from this would be used to support poorer parishes.'

Paul Judson, a spokesman for the diocese, said that the paintings 'are earning money where they are because they are an attraction at Auckland Castle for tourists, conference participants and wedding groups.'