National Gallery
Art museum on Trafalgar Square, London; over 2,300 paintings, founded 1824.
At a glance
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- The National Gallery is an art museum in Trafalgar Square, London, founded in 1824 when the government bought 38 paintings from the heirs of John Julius Angerstein.
- It holds more than 2,300 paintings from the mid-13th century to 1900, and entry to the main collection is free.
- Its present building, by William Wilkins, opened in 1838.
Key facts
- Founded
- 18241
- Collection
- More than 2,300 paintings, mid-13th century to 19001
- Building
- William Wilkins, opened 18381
- Director
- Gabriele Finaldi (as of 2026)1
People
Before
Led by until Jul 2007
Charles Saumarez Smith (director) 2
Links
Sources
Last checked against its sources today
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