National Gallery

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National Gallery

The National Gallery is an art museum located in Trafalgar Square, in the City of Westminster, in Central London. Founded in 1824, it houses a rich collection of over 2,300 paintings dating from the mid-13th century to 1900. The Gallery is an exempt charity, and a non-departmental public body of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. Its collection belongs to the public of the United Kingdom and entry to the main collection is free of charge.

History

The National Gallery was established in 1824 when the British government purchased 38 paintings from the banker and collector John Julius Angerstein. Initially housed in Angerstein's townhouse at 100 Pall Mall, the collection quickly outgrew this location. In 1838, the Gallery moved to its current location in Trafalgar Square, designed by the architect William Wilkins.

Collection

The National Gallery's collection is notable for its breadth and depth, covering all major European schools of painting. Highlights include works by Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, Rembrandt, and Johannes Vermeer. The collection is arranged chronologically, allowing visitors to trace the development of Western European painting from the late medieval period to the end of the 19th century.

Architecture

The main building, designed by William Wilkins, has undergone several expansions and renovations. Notable additions include the Sainsbury Wing, designed by Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown, which opened in 1991. The Sainsbury Wing houses the early Renaissance collection and is considered one of the finest examples of postmodern architecture in the UK.

Education and Outreach

The National Gallery offers a wide range of educational programs and resources for visitors of all ages. These include guided tours, lectures, workshops, and family activities. The Gallery also collaborates with schools and community groups to make art accessible to a broader audience.

Governance and Funding

The National Gallery is governed by a board of trustees, appointed by the Prime Minister. It receives funding from the UK government, as well as from private donations and sponsorships. The Gallery also generates income through its shops, cafes, and special exhibitions.

Related Pages

• Trafalgar Square
• City of Westminster
• Leonardo da Vinci
• Vincent van Gogh
• Claude Monet
• Rembrandt
• Johannes Vermeer
• William Wilkins
• Robert Venturi
• Denise Scott Brown
• Sainsbury Wing

Categories

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