Mid-recession, UK's government spends £1.3 million on sculpture
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The sculpture was purchased by UK’s taxpayer-funded Government Art Collection.
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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (AP)
As experts warn that the UK is likely to enter a deeper recession than previously expected next year, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spent £1.3 million on a sculpture for his garden.
Last month, Christie's auctioned off an abstract 1980 sculpture by acclaimed British artist Henry Moore for a little over £1.3 million. The sculpture was purchased by UK’s taxpayer-funded Government Art Collection.
An expert said, as quoted by The Sun, that “it is a fine piece and an important example of Moore’s collection of seated women sculptures”.
“However, it may be considered an extravagant use of public funds, particularly given the economic climate.”
Downing Street stated that no politicians were involved in the purchase of the piece.
This isn't the first piece of Henry Moore art to grace Number 10's garden; works are swapped on a regular basis at the request of the late sculptor's charitable organization.
It is worth noting that the new UK PM was quick to draw criticism as the local media and UK opposition called Sunak out for his wealth, which is double King Charles'.
This is happening as the UK is witnessing the largest drop in its standard of living in 66 years.
As the economy slows down sharply, soaring inflation limits consumer spending on non-essential items. The central bank predicts that the UK entered a recession in the third quarter of 2022, and the recession will be ongoing until mid-2024.
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