The gallery highlights how history, culture and identity have evolved through individual lives. In this way, the museum is not only a portrait collection but also a visual archive, preserving how each era perceived power, status, fashion and identity.
History and Formation of the Collection
The gallery was founded in 1856 by an Act of Parliament to document portraits of individuals significant to British history. The original collection consisted of paintings, drawings and engravings from various centuries. As photography developed in the 19th century, photographic portraits were added, expanding the museum’s mission to include cultural figures of more recent eras.
The National Portrait Gallery’s collection has continued to grow and now spans different periods, artistic movements and social contexts. It serves not only as a repository of portraits but also as a visual chronicle capturing personal histories and broader cultural change.
Architecture and the Museum Building
The building was designed by Sir Robert Smirke, who also designed the British Museum. Completed in the 1840s, the National Portrait Gallery reflects neoclassical architectural design. Although the building has been extended several times, much of its original historic character remains.
A major redevelopment in 2023 introduced a new entrance and more spacious galleries. The project improved lighting, added more accessible routes and visitor facilities, and created more open public areas. These changes contributed to a smoother, more modern visitor experience.
How the Collection Is Organised
The National Portrait Gallery differs from many other London museums in that its starting point is the individual. Works are selected based on the historical or cultural significance of the person depicted.
Visitors can explore the collection along a chronological route, beginning with the Tudor period and continuing to the present day:
- Early rooms feature royalty and statesmen
- Victorian galleries explore the modernising empire
- 20th-century rooms highlight the rise of photography and icons from popular culture
The collection continues with portraits of the modern royal family, including King Charles III, Catherine, Princess of Wales, and Diana, Princess of Wales. Not all portraits are permanently on display. Some of them rotate depending on curatorial themes. For example, portraits of Queen Camilla and Prince William have appeared in past exhibitions.
The gallery also includes major figures from popular culture and contemporary society such as David Bowie, Amy Winehouse, Kate Moss, Zadie Smith, Marcus Rashford, Khadija Saye and Malala Yousafzai. The collection reflects how society’s understanding of “significant individuals” has broadened and diversified over time.
Key Portraits
Among the gallery’s most famous pieces are the Chandos portrait of William Shakespeare, attributed to John Taylor, and the Ditchley portrait of Queen Elizabeth I by Marcus Gheeraerts the Younger. These works represent early British portraiture and illustrate how art has historically depicted power.
Portraits of Winston Churchill, including Yousuf Karsh’s iconic photograph and Sir Oswald Birley’s official painting, show a more modern, documentary approach to portraiture.
National Portrait Gallery in Context
London is known for its rich museum landscape, and the National Portrait Gallery stands out through its focus on people. Its collection is built around key individuals from different periods, presented in a way few museums offer.
- The National Gallery and Tate Britain showcase art history and major artistic movements
- The Victoria and Albert Museum highlights fashion, design and cultural heritage
- The Museum of London presents the city’s social and urban history
- The Queen’s Gallery and The King’s Gallery focus on royal portraits
The National Portrait Gallery distinguishes itself by focusing on the individual and their role in society across different historical periods and societal changes.
Events and Exhibitions
In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions that highlight artists, photographers and cultural figures from various eras.
Location and Visitor Information
The National Portrait Gallery is located near Trafalgar Square and is easily accessible by public transport. Entry to the permanent collection is free, with some temporary exhibitions ticketed. The museum includes a café, a shop and fully accessible facilities.
Photography Tips
Photography without flash is generally allowed inside the museum. The quietest and best-lit times to visit are weekday mornings. The building’s exterior is also inspiring for photographers. Its neoclassical façade and location near Trafalgar Square provide excellent photo opportunities, especially in evening light.
Summary
The National Portrait Gallery presents the people of British history through portraits, connecting art with social and cultural change. It offers a unique perspective on British heritage and portraiture, making it an engaging visit for both first-time visitors and returning admirers.
