A Remarkable Legacy: The Stewart Lockhart Collection at George Watson’s College

At George Watson’s College, we are privileged to be the custodians of an extraordinary collection that links our school not only to Scotland’s history but also to the rich cultural traditions of China. The Stewart Lockhart Collection of artworks, artifacts, papers and photographs was amassed by former Watson’s pupil Sir James Haldane Stewart Lockhart and was gifted to Watson’s in 1967 by his daughter Mary Stewart Lockhart – also known as the pioneering designer Betty Joel.  

Stewardship and legacy 

Over the past six decades, George Watson’s College has taken great care to safeguard this collection, working in partnership with national and international institutions such as the National Library of Scotland, the National Galleries of Scotland, and the Hong Kong Museum of History. Many of these works have been loaned for exhibition or research, while others remain in our archives. 

However, some of the paintings and objects are fragile, requiring specialist storage and conservation that cannot be provided within the school. With the conclusion of a long-term loan to the National Museums Scotland, we have made the considered decision to sell a selection of works that cannot be adequately preserved, stored, or displayed by the College. This responsible approach ensures the ongoing care of the remaining items while realising tangible benefits for today’s and future Watson’s pupils. 

A collection rooted in cultural exchange 

Sir James Stewart Lockhart (1858–1937) was a distinguished colonial administrator in Hong Kong and Weihaiwei, whose respect for Chinese culture and philosophy was ahead of his time. Fluent in Chinese and deeply engaged with the traditions of the country, he assembled a significant collection of paintings, calligraphy, and artefacts. These works, passed to his daughter Mary and later to Watson’s, form a unique bridge between Scotland and China – a story of connection, respect, and learning. 

Mary herself was a woman of remarkable talent and determination. As Betty Joel, she broke barriers in the early twentieth century as one of Britain’s leading designers, whose work is exhibited at the Victoria and Albert Museum. In gifting her father’s collection to Watson’s, she wrote in 1965 that these “treasures would benefit more and more, and become of great value to pupils of future generations.” It is that vision we now seek to fulfil in a way that remains true to her hopes and as a lasting legacy of her father’s regard for his former school. 

Continuing benefit to pupils 

Proceeds from the sale will directly support Foundation Places, widening access to a Watson’s education for young people who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend our school. Funds will also contribute to the ongoing conservation of the remaining collection, ensuring it continues to inspire future generations. 

Our commitment is clear: to continue honouring the intentions of those who have entrusted us with their gifts. Many items in the collection will remain in the care of national institutions and in the school archive, where they will be available for viewing in due course.

The sale at Sotheby’s represents not an end, but an evolution – a way to celebrate the generosity of Mary Stewart Lockhart and the cultural bridge her father built, while ensuring their legacy continues to enrich lives at George Watson’s College.