London’s Courtauld Gallery Receives Historic $40 Million Donation
77Oct. 16, 2025
TheCourtauld Galleryand Institute in London has revealed itself to be the recipient of a £30 million ($40 million) donation, the largest in its ninety-three year history. The gift was made by theReuben Foundation, a charitable organization established by billionaire brothers and art collectors David and Simon Reuben, who made their fortunes in Russian aluminum and real estate. The foundation, which supports health care, education, and the arts, has aided other British institutions in the past, including the Design Museum and the Imperial War Museum, both in London.
The money arrives as the Courtauld continues construction of its new campus on London’s Strand, which is expected to be completed in 2029 and in support of which it has already raised £115 million. The gallery also announced a long-term partnership with the Reuben Foundation, through which the organization will assist in staging exhibitions at the Courtauld through the Reuben brothers’ extensive art collection.
“The partnership with the Reuben Foundation marks a defining moment in the Courtauld’s history, ushering in a bold new chapter and launching us into our next century with even greater ambition and purpose,” said Courtauld director Mark Hallett in a statement. “We look forward to working closely with the Foundation over the coming years and creating something truly unique together.”
“We are thrilled by the opportunity to build on the Courtauld’s remarkable history and to support the realization of its ambitious development,” said Reuben Foundation trustee Lisa Reuben in a statement. “Recognized internationally as the pre-eminent center for the study of art history, art conservation and curatorial studies, the Courtauld exemplifies the philanthropist Samuel Courtauld’s vision of ‘art for all.’ Its enduring commitment to excellence—reflected in the generations of leaders in the art world it has produced—aligns seamlessly with the Reuben Foundation’s values and ethos and furthers our commitment to education and culture.”