The National Portrait Gallery, founded in 1856 and located in London, tells the story of Britain through portraits, using art to bring history to life and explore life today. From global icons to unsung heroes, the gallery’s collection is filled with stories that have shaped—and continue to shape—an entire nation.
In April 2023, the Idan and Batia Ofer Family Foundation donated £150,000 to the Gallery to support a historic and groundbreaking collaboration between the National Portrait Gallery and the Getty Museum in Los Angeles, California. Both institutions raised £25 million each—£50 million in total—and jointly acquired a masterpiece by Joshua Reynolds titled Portrait of Mai (Omai), a painting described as one of the most important and influential portraits in the history of British art. This extraordinary effort was made possible thanks to the unwavering support of many individuals and organizations, with the Idan and Batia Ofer Family Foundation playing a central role.
Portrait of Mai (Omai) is a 1775 painting depicting the first Polynesian to visit Britain. It is widely considered to be the finest portrait by one of Britain’s greatest artists. Mai, born in Raiatea (French Polynesia), fled to Tahiti after Bora Bora invaded his homeland. There, he joined British officer James Cook on his voyage to England. Upon his arrival in London, Mai was warmly received, met King George III in an attempt to persuade him to save Raiatea, and quickly grasped the British class system, which turned him into something of a celebrity. Artist Joshua Reynolds couldn’t ignore him and offered to paint the young adventurer, resulting in the creation of Portrait of Mai.
The painting had always been privately owned, and the current owner’s decision to sell it meant there was a real chance it would once again pass into private hands—potentially never to be seen publicly again. The foundation’s donation helped secure the painting for the British public, as well as for a broader international audience, ensuring that this important and unique masterpiece would, for the first time, be publicly owned. Additionally, the donation supported the creation of an innovative model of international collaboration between the National Portrait Gallery and the Getty Museum, who will share the painting for public exhibitions, research, care, and conservation.
The foundation strives to create global connections and drive meaningful change through art. Its donation will allow the broader public and future generations to enjoy a historic masterpiece. Furthermore, this historic partnership between the museums is expected to inspire others to think creatively about how significant artworks can be shared most effectively.
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“Through art, the foundation aims to build global bridges and inspire lasting impact. Thanks to its donation, a historic masterpiece will be enjoyed by the public for generations to come.”
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id nulla in dui convallis vestibulum at non felis. Vivamus vel augue eu velit tempor scelerisque eget sit amet odio. Vivamus ut efficitur mauris. Nullam at sem id mauris sodales hendrerit in vel dui.
