Portrait of the 6th Duke of Devonshire who built a positive legacy in Ireland

This portrait of William Spencer Cavendish, 6th Duke of Devonshire (1790-1858) by Sir Thomas Lawrence failed to find a buyer at Sotheby's Old Master and 19th-century painting sale in London. It is of interest because the subject was one of the greatest patrons of the arts who left a positive mark on Ireland.

Shortly after inheriting the title at 21, he sent the architect William Atkinson to rebuild Lismore Castle in the familiar gothic style we know it today using cut stone from Derbyshire. 

He was also instrumental in rebuilding Dungarvan in the early 19th century with a new bridge, square, quay and marketplace. 

The portrait of this supporter of both Catholic Emancipation and the abolition of slavery had been estimated at €300,000-£500,000 (€362,000-€603,000). The top lot of the auction was T he Virgin and Child Enthroned by Sandro Botticelli which made £9.9 million (€11.95 million).