LONDON: A rare oil painting of Indian independence leader Mahatma Gandhi, which is believed to have been damaged by a Hindu nationalist activist, is to be auctioned in London in July.

Gandhi, one of the most influential figures in India`s history, led a non-violent movement against British rule and inspired similar resistance campaigns across the world. He is the subject of tens of thousands of artworks, books and films.

But a 1931 painting by BritishAmerican artist Clare Leighton is believed to be the only oil portrait he sat for, according to the painter`s family and Bonhams, where it will be auctioned online from July 7 to 15.

`Not only is this a rare work by ClareLeighton, who is mainly known for her wood engravings, it is also thought to be the only oil painting of Mahatma Gandhi which he sat for,` said Rhyanon Demery, Bonhams Head of Sale for Travel and Exploration. The painting is a `likely hidden treasure`, Caspar Leighton, the artist`s great-nephew, said. Going under the hammer for the first time next month, the painting is estimated to sell for between 50,000 and 70,000 ($68,000 and $95,000).

Clare Leighton met Gandhi in 1931, when he was in London for talks with the British government on India`s political future. She was part of London`s leftwing artistic circles and was introduced to Gandhi by her partner, journalist Henry Noel Brailsford.-AFP