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Portrait of Churchill's hero shows wartime support

National Trust_Laurence Perry A woman wearing a long blue dress stares up at a painting as she walks up a grand wooden staircase. The painting appears to be a portrait of a nobleman from the 17th or 18th Century. On another wall is a painting with two curtains above in a pink and white toile patternNational Trust_Laurence Perry
Chartwell curator Katherine Carter said the portrait enriches the existing collection

A restored painting gifted to Sir Winston Churchill to lift his spirits during World War Two goes on public display for the first time.

The portrait of the first Duke of Marlborough, who was known to be Churchill's ancestor and hero, was given to him by Lord Saltoun on 15 February 1942.

It followed the Fall of Singapore, which he deemed "the worst disaster" in British history.

The painting is on display at Churchill's family home, Chartwell in Westerham, Kent, which is now owned by the National Trust.

Churchill's four-volume history of the Duke of Marlborough, written largely at Chartwell, was cited among the works for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.

National Trust_Melanie Caldwell A poor condition portrait of a nobleman, seemingly 17th or 18th Century.National Trust_Melanie Caldwell
The portrait has undergone a £25,000 restoration

Writing to Lord Saltoun, Churchill said: "It is exceedingly kind of you to offer me the portrait of the first Duke of Marlborough. I am greatly complimented by this kind thought and accept your offer with gratitude

"I shall always value the picture not only in itself but also for the feelings so gracefully expressed in your letter."

In reply, Lord Saltoun wrote: "I was sure that your sensitive ear and taste must have suffered and suffer even more and more often than my own, I ventured to offer it (the painting), and as I said before, I hope it may bring you good fortune."

Initially thought to be a 19th Century copy of an early 18th Century painting, the artist is unknown.

The painting was previously in too poor condition to be displayed until a donation of £25,000 was received for its analysis and restoration.

This revealed that the painting dates back to the late 17th or early 18th Centuries.

Chartwell curator, Katherine Carter, said: "The addition of the Duke of Marlborough painting enriches the collection and provides visitors with a more intimate glimpse into Churchill's life and legacy."

She says it "underscores the emotional support and encouragement that sustained Churchill during the war".

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