Famous Scottish artist Jack Vettriano dies in France at 73 after a career that saw The Singing Butler become a record-breaking masterpiece

Renowned Scottish painter Jack Vettriano, best known for his iconic artwork The Singing Butler, has passed away at the age of 73. His publicist confirmed that he was found in France on Saturday. While details remain limited, there are no indications of suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

The Legacy of The Singing Butler

Vettriano’s name became synonymous with The Singing Butler, a striking painting depicting a couple dancing on a beach while a butler shields them with an umbrella. The piece shattered records when it sold for £750,000 in 2004, making it the most expensive painting ever auctioned by a Scottish artist. His unique ability to blend romance, mystery, and storytelling in his art won him worldwide recognition.

A Life Between Scotland and France

Born as Jack Hoggan in Methil, Fife, on November 17, 1951, Vettriano had a journey that took him from Scotland to international fame. Since 2010, he had spent much of his time living in Nice on the French Mediterranean coast, a place that provided both inspiration and solace.

Personal Struggles and Reflections

Vettriano had been open about his personal battles in recent years. In 2022, he revealed that he had struggled with substance abuse, attributing it to the emotional and financial fallout of what he described as “a very destructive relationship in London.” He admitted that the experience had taken a heavy toll on him, both personally and professionally.

A Loss to the Art World

With his passing, the art world has lost one of its most distinctive and celebrated figures. His work, often characterized by themes of love, intrigue, and nostalgia, will continue to captivate audiences for generations. Further updates on his passing are expected as more details emerge.