Hugh Brigstocke (LI 1957-60), who died peacefully at home in York after a period of illness, was a distinguished art historian, curator, editor and scholar whose contributions to the study of European art spanned more than five decades.

Born on 7 May 1943, the son of Canon George Brigstocke and Mollie Brigstocke, Hugh was educated at Marlborough College before reading Modern History at Magdalene College, Cambridge. He later completed a PhD in Art History at the University of Edinburgh.

After early work at York City Art Gallery, Hugh spent fifteen years at the National Gallery of Scotland, where he became Curator of Italian, Spanish and French Paintings. He later served as Editor-in-Chief of the groundbreaking Grove Dictionary of Art and held senior roles at Sotheby’s in London. Throughout his career he remained an active researcher and author, publishing extensively on Old Master paintings, collecting history and the British art trade. His books, catalogues and scholarly articles continue to be valued by art historians and collectors alike.

Hugh will be remembered for his intellectual energy, curiosity and meticulous scholarship. His interests extended beyond art history to ceramics, antiquarian books, travel, opera, theatre, food and wine. 

A highlight of his later career was his time as a Paul Mellon Fellow at the British School at Rome. He greatly enjoyed the collegiate atmosphere, the opportunity to exchange ideas with younger scholars and artists, and the daily immersion in the artistic and cultural life of Rome – including the wine and food!

Hugh is survived by his wife, Anthea, his children Sophie and Julian, and his grandchildren Claudia, Freddie, Kynance and Seth.