The painting by Albert Chavalier Taylor had been on loan to Lord's since 1999.

"The decision to sell the painting was a difficult one, but the finances of county cricket clubs are becoming increasingly fragile.

"We took the view that the proceeds should be used to help ensure the longer-term future of the club," said Kent chairman Carl Openshaw.

The painting was purchased by Andrew Brownsword, who owns Bath rugby club and operates a charitable foundation which buys works of art to ensure they can be retained for public viewing.

Kent had been unable to dispaly the picture at Canterbury because the cost of insuring it had become prohibitive.

"I understand that this unique painting will in the short-term at least continue to hang at Lord's where it can be seen by future generations of cricket lovers," Openshaw added.