Tate Tries to Keep Rubens Painting in Britain

LONDON—The Tate is leading an appeal in Britain to raise £6 million ($11.9 million) by July 31 in order to keep a Rubens painting, The Apotheosis of King James I (1629-1630), in the country. The painting was originally commissioned by Charles I in 1629 for the ceiling of the Banqueting House in Whitehall. It is a glorification of his father, James I, and portrays Justice raising the ruler to heaven.

The painting belonged most recently to the 6th Viscount Hampden. After his death in January, his family decided to sell it, and the Tate began its efforts to secure £6 million or lose it to be sold at auction.

The museum, where the work hangs on temporary display, has raised £1.5 million so far, including £500,000 from the art charity The Art Fund and £300,000 from Tate members. The Art Fund has also created a Web site where people can learn about the campaign and donate.