The much-anticipated return of the portrait known as "The Roaring Lion" featuring Winston Churchill has captivated Ottawa once again. This iconic piece, masterfully captured by renowned Canadian photographer Yousuf Karsh, made its grand re-entrance at the Fairmont Château Laurier hotel nearly three years after it was brazenly stolen, leading to a complex international art recovery saga.
The portrait, displayed at the Fairmont Château Laurier since 1998, was originally swapped out for a fake sometime between Christmas 2021 and January 6, 2022, as discovered by hotel staff months later. Following this shocking heist, the portrait was missing until it was located over 18 months later, hidden away across the Atlantic.
A ceremony was held on November 15, 2024, to celebrate the return of this treasured work. The event was organized within the hotel's Zoe's Lounge where the portrait has returned to its rightful place. There was palpable excitement as various dignitaries, including Ottawa's Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and representatives from the Canadian Heritage Department, gathered to witness the occasion.
General Manager Genevieve Dumas expressed elation during the ceremony, emphasizing the significance of the portrait to both the hotel and the city itself. "I can tell you it’s armed, locked, secured, alarmed," Dumas added, assuring guests about the enhanced security measures surrounding the piece.
After its recovery, Ottawa Police collaborated with international law enforcement, including the London Metropolitan Police and the Italian Carabinieri. Through diligent investigation, they tracked the portrait to Italy, where it had changed hands through auctions unbeknownst to the buyers. It turned out to be part of the theft's fallout when it resurfaced, leading to the eventual arrest of Jeffrey Iain James Wood, the accused thief, who faces multiple charges.
Winston Churchill's portrait is conceptually rich—not only does it exemplify Karsh's legacy as one of Canada's preeminent photographers, but it captures the essence of Churchill himself at the height of World War II. The iconic photograph, taken on Dec. 30, 1941, on Parliament Hill, portrays the British Prime Minister just after delivering a resounding address to the Canadian Parliament. Holding dual significance, Karsh's creative spirit resonates with the hotel's storied history, as he operated his photography studio on its sixth floor.
During the restoration ceremony, heartfelt messages from Karsh’s widow, Estrellita, were conveyed, noting the profundity of the portrait, especially since it was created near the site of Churchill's speech. "I am delighted my husband's portrait of Sir Winston Churchill is back home where it belongs," she expressed, reaffirming the cultural ties embedded within the piece.
Due to the events leading up to its theft and repercussions for the hotel, significant security measures have been implemented, with alarms and protective casings now surrounding the portrait, ensuring it won’t be easily taken again. Dumas shared moments of levity, noting how the staff accidentally triggered the new system during the reinstallation, resulting in quite the scene.
The fascination surrounding "The Roaring Lion" also extends to its broader symbolism, as Mayor Sutcliffe highlighted at the ceremony. "This is where the portrait belongs. It signifies Ottawa’s rich history and artistic heritage, affirming our shared identity," he proclaimed, drawing attention to the importance of art restoration and preservation efforts.
The portrait had been previously described as the most recognizable depiction of Churchill, immortalized on the U.K.'s five-pound banknote as one of the most iconic images of the 20th century. Its picture of Churchill embodies pride and defiance during tumultuous times, contributing to its lasting legacy.
Beyond the portrait’s aesthetic value lies its narrative of resilience, demanding focus on art’s vulnerability and the challenges faced by institutions to secure such treasures. The misadventures leading to the theft can serve as cautionary tales, emphasizing the necessity for stringent security and vigilant monitoring of valuable art pieces.
With the portrait now back on display, it is open for public viewing again, promising to draw art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The hotel cleverly promoted its return alongside the reopening of Zoe’s for drinks and dining, creating heightened anticipation for visitors eager to experience both the culinary and visual pleasures.
The recovery of "The Roaring Lion" is not merely about reclaiming the painting; it embodies the spirit of collaboration and shared dedication to protecting cultural heritage. Many laud the efforts of the Ottawa Police Service and their international counterparts, crediting the successful rescue to teamwork, forensic analysis, and community tips.
The portrait's return is emblematic of Ottawa's rich historical fabric, serving as a tangible reminder of the city’s artistic talents and the lengths taken to preserve its artifacts. While Ottawa celebrates this rediscovery, it opens the floor for discussions about the importance of safeguarding cultural icons and ensuring their rightful places.
The Grand Unveiling on November 15 marks the end of this storied chapter for one of Canada’s most prized possessions, with the artwork restored to its historical roots. And as Ottawa settles back to life with the portrait on view, "The Roaring Lion" remains not just art, but also history—a fleeting glimpse at resilience and the enduring legacy of figures like Winston Churchill captured through the lens of Yousuf Karsh.
