The National Gallery
The National Gallery, situated in the heart of London’s Trafalgar Square, is one of the United Kingdom’s most prestigious art galleries. Established in 1824, it was founded to provide public access to a collection of exceptional European paintings. The gallery’s origins can be traced back to the British government’s acquisition of a private art collection belonging to banker John Julius Angerstein, which served as the foundation for the institution. The National Gallery has since grown into one of the world’s foremost art museums, renowned for its rich holdings of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries.
The National Gallery’s architectural history is a tale of several extensions and modifications. The original structure was designed by William Wilkins, and it has undergone multiple expansions to accommodate the growing collection. Notably, in 1991, the Sainsbury Wing, designed by architect Robert Venturi, was added, offering additional gallery space and modern facilities. This expansion helped enhance the visitor experience while preserving the historical integrity of the original building.
The museum’s collection is a treasure trove of Western European art, featuring masterpieces by some of the most renowned painters in history. Among its most important holdings are works by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, Rembrandt, Titian, and Claude Monet. Leonardo’s iconic painting, “The Virgin of the Rocks,” and Vincent van Gogh’s celebrated “Sunflowers” are just a couple of the highlights.
Recommended Resources
- National Gallery, London facts for kids – Kiddle (Website Link)
World-Explorer.Online 