UK imposes export bar on £71m Rembrandt portrait

The UK government has placed an export ban on Rembrandt's 'Portrait of Catrina Hooghsaet' from 1657, which is valued at an impressive £71 million. This makes it the most expensive piece ever designated as a national treasure, according to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. This artwork has been part of the UK since the 1700s and was sold privately at Christie's last year. The export ban lasts until December 26, giving UK institutions a chance to buy it. If no one steps up, the owners will have 15 business days to consider offers, plus a nine-month extension. Arts Minister Ruth Mackenzie and historian Bendor Grosvenor emphasized the need for museum funding to keep such cultural treasures.