Introduction to The National Gallery, London The National Gallery is an esteemed art museum located in Trafalgar Square, City of Westminster, Central London, England. Established in 1824, the gallery has been a significant contributor to the preservation and promotion of Western painting from the mid-13th century to 1900. The National Gallery is an exempt charity and a non-departmental public body of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, with its collection belonging to the government on behalf of the British public.
The National Gallery (United Kingdom) - A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction to The National Gallery, London
The National Gallery is an esteemed art museum located in Trafalgar Square, City of Westminster, Central London, England. Established in 1824, the gallery has been a significant contributor to the preservation and promotion of Western painting from the mid-13th century to 1900. The National Gallery is an exempt charity and a non-departmental public body of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, with its collection belonging to the government on behalf of the British public.
History and Evolution of The National Gallery
The National Gallery was formed in 1824 when the British government purchased 38 paintings from the heirs of John Julius Angerstein. Initially, the gallery was housed in Angerstein's former residence at 100 Pall Mall. In 1838, it moved to its current location at Trafalgar Square, designed by William Wilkins. The building has undergone several expansions and renovations over the years, with the most recent addition being the Sainsbury Wing in 1991, a significant example of Postmodernist architecture in Britain.
The National Gallery's Collection
The National Gallery houses an encyclopaedic collection of over 2,300 paintings representing major developments in Western painting from Giotto to Cézanne. The gallery has a diverse range of artworks, with two-thirds of the collection coming from private donations. Some notable artists represented in the collection include
Titian Ramsey Peale Ii,
Piero Della Francesca, and
Rembrandt Peale.
The National Gallery's Impact on British Culture
The National Gallery has played a significant role in shaping British culture. The gallery has been instrumental in promoting the appreciation and understanding of Western painting, with its collection inspiring numerous artists, writers, and scholars. Additionally, the gallery has contributed to British literature, music, cinema, art, architecture, and television, making it an essential component of British cultural heritage.
Visiting The National Gallery
The National Gallery is open every day from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with extended hours on Fridays until 9:00 pm. Admission to the main collection is free of charge, making it accessible to everyone. Visitors can explore the gallery's extensive collection, attend temporary exhibitions, and participate in educational programs and events.
Conclusion
The National Gallery is an essential cultural institution in the United Kingdom, showcasing a diverse range of Western painting from the mid-13th century to 1900. The gallery's collection has inspired numerous artists, writers, and scholars, making it an integral part of British cultural heritage. With its commitment to preserving and promoting Western painting, The National Gallery continues to be a significant contributor to British culture.
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