News has surfaced about yet another scandal shaking the British royal family. This time, the spotlight has turned to Princess Eugenie, who, beyond her royal title, also works as an associate director at the internationally renowned Hauser & Wirth art gallery. The situation has drawn widespread attention not only because of the royal connection but also due to a reported link to Russia, adding even more intrigue to the developing case.
According to Channel 24, which cites reports from foreign media outlets, Hauser & Wirth has been accused of breaching international sanctions. The accusation centers around the alleged sale of George Condo’s painting “Escape from Humanity” to a buyer believed to have ties to Russia. The transaction is thought to have taken place sometime between April and December of 2022 — a period when heightened sanctions and restrictions were being strictly enforced following geopolitical tensions.
Despite the commotion, it is crucial to emphasize that no direct evidence has emerged indicating Princess Eugenie personally participated in or approved the sale. Her name has surfaced simply due to her long-standing official role within the gallery, where she has been a director since 2015.
The timing of the suspected sale has raised questions. In April 2022, the UK Department for International Trade introduced a sweeping ban that prohibited the export of luxury goods valued at more than £250 (approximately $320) to Russia. Paintings, fine art pieces, and other high-value collectibles all fall under these restrictions. If it is proven that Hauser & Wirth facilitated such a sale during the restricted period, the gallery could face an unlimited fine — a potentially severe penalty.
Representatives of Hauser & Wirth have already issued a firm response. They insist that the gallery operates in full compliance with all legal obligations, including international sanctions. They also stress that the case involves only one specific artwork and that the person who acquired it is not under direct sanctions. Nevertheless, they acknowledge that the matter is being investigated and that legal proceedings may follow.
“Our British gallery has been accused in a single case of providing a work of art to an individual connected to Russia who is not subject to sanctions,” the spokesperson explained. “We remain fully committed to meeting all of our legal responsibilities, including adherence to sanctions. As the investigation continues, we cannot offer further comments, except to strongly deny the allegation and confirm that we intend to plead not guilty.”
As the situation develops, public curiosity remains high. Questions are swirling not only about the gallery’s potential liability but also about the extent — if any — of Princess Eugenie’s involvement. For now, the story continues to unfold, and both royal observers and the international art community are watching closely.
