A London-based art gallery directed by Princess Eugenie has been cleared of allegations that it breached sanctions on Russia following the sale of a painting. The case was dismissed by Southwark Crown Court on Thursday after prosecutors failed to prove that the transaction violated restrictions related to the transfer of luxury goods.

The gallery, Hauser & Wirth, along with shipping company Artay Rauchwerger Solomons, faced accusations of sending artwork to Alexander Popov, who was initially identified as a Russian resident. Prosecutors argued that the sale contravened sanctions imposed on Russia by transferring luxury items to a sanctioned individual.

However, during the court hearing, evidence was presented indicating that Mr. Popov had renounced his Russian citizenship and resided in Bosnia and Armenia. Judge Tony Baumgartner ruled there was insufficient evidence to establish that Mr. Popov maintained residency in Russia at the time of the transaction.

Princess Eugenie, who serves as a director at Hauser & Wirth’s London gallery located in Mayfair, was not implicated in any wrongdoing throughout the proceedings.

The dismissal marks a clear resolution in a case that raised questions about compliance with international sanctions in the art market. The gallery and associated parties can now continue their operations without the burden of these allegations.