Botong’s ‘Camote Diggers’ to be donated to a museum, Leon Gallery says

After fetching a whopping P23.4M at Leon Gallery’s mid-year auction, “Camote Diggers” by National Artist Carlos “Botong” Francisco will be donated to a museum.

A statement issued by the Leon Gallery and acquired by GMA News Online on Monday said the decision to donate the masterpiece was to “avoid further controversy and possible politicization” of Botong’s last and unfinished work.

“The consignor, who wishes to remain anonymous, has nominated Leon Gallery through its director Jaime Ponce de Leon, to act on his behalf,” the statement continued, adding the buyer was also consulted and “has gracefully agreed” to the decision.

According to the statement, the consignor has had “Camote Diggers” in possession since 2004, or for 15 years.

RELATED: Botong's work 'Camote Diggers' auctioned off amid looming controversy

In its website, Leon Gallery said the painting is a “property of a very distinguished gentleman.” It also said it had been part of a Yuchengco Museum exhibit in 2015.

“This is the first time that issues on its ownership have surfaced,” the fresh statement read.

Incidentally, this is also "the first time that a work that has been successfully auctioned will be donated to an institution," it added.

According to Leon Gallery, the final choice of the museum to which the Botong piece will be donated, will be made shortly. — LA, GMA News