The University of Edinburgh's rare and unique collections catalogue online.

Portrait Collection

TitlePortrait Collection
TypeArt
DescriptionThis section of the Art Collection includes over 400 portraits collected over the 400 years of the University’s history. Most of the portraits in the collection represent historical figures connected with the University, augmented by recent commissions such as the busts of the Chancellor, HRH the Duke of Edinburgh and of the former Principal Lord Sutherland, both commissioned from Vincent Butler, 2004. The Collection is second only in scope and quality in Scotland to the Scottish National Portrait Gallery. Artists represented include David Scougal, Watson Gordon, Alberto Morocco and Stanley Cursiter. Sculptors include Brodie, Steell and Chantry. The Raeburn Room is dedicated to the seven works by Sir Henry Raeburn held in the collection. Of particular note is the portrait of Robert Trotter of The Bush and Castlelaw by David Martin, and the portrait of John Knox said to be the first representation of his image.
CustodianUniversity of Edinburgh
Custodial HistoryCollected, acquired by bequest and donated over the 400 years of the University’s history. Largely identified by the University of Edinburgh Cultural Collections Audit in 2005, and transferred to the Fine Art Collections in 2007.
OriginEdinburgh; Edinburgh; Europe; Scotland; Scotland; United Kingdom; United Kingdom; University of Edinburgh
IdentifierUNIVEDCLD010
Parent Collection The University of Edinburgh Art Collection