engleză
Richly illustrated, the book tells the story of the founding and growth of one of the world's greatest collections of western European painting, dating from 1250 to 1900. The National Gallery started life in 1824 when the Government purchased the collection of 38 pictures belonging to the estate of wealthy banker John Julius Angerstein. As there was no suitable space to house the collection, the pictures were displayed in Angerstein's former home in Pall Mall. It was only in 1838 that the collection moved to its current site in Trafalgar Square. The collection has grown into one of the world's greatest galleries of western European paintings. This book brings together the stories behind the development of the National Gallery: the generous benefactors; the architectural controversies; the acquisitions; the dedicated staff; the visiting public. Generously illustrated, it gives an insight into the history of the people and events which have helped shape this much-loved national institution.
