The UK government placed a temporary export ban on Rembrandt's Portrait of Catrina Hooghsaet, painted in 1657 and valued at £71 million, according to a press release published on 27 August 2026. The painting, displayed in the UK since the mid-eighteenth century, was described as the most expensive object ever to be given national treasure status. The measure gave museums and galleries time to raise funds to acquire it and keep it on public display.

The Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest recommended the bar, finding the portrait met all three Waverley criteria concerning national importance. Arts Minister Ruth Mackenzie said the painting had been part of the UK's cultural life for centuries. Committee Chairman Andrew Hochhauser KC called it among Rembrandt's finest achievements, citing its delicacy and psychological insight.

As reported at the time, the decision on the export licence application was deferred for an initial period ending on 26 December 2026 inclusive, with expressions of interest from an appropriate purchaser welcomed. The recommended price was listed as £71,696,324.90 plus VAT of £754,698.15. At the end of that first period, owners would have a consideration period of 15 business days for any offers; a second deferral period would follow the signing of an Option Agreement and would last nine months.