For what it is, this is a 5-star book. This is a history of the Gallery itself, not of art history. (However, a general knowledge of the master’s is useful and provides a more entertaining read).
A concise and encompassing understanding of how the museum came to be while also putting into perspective the history of all museums.
Made me more appreciative of museum culture. Looking forward to my visit even more now!
A most beautiful book to read. Amazing prints of beautiful paintings. This book grew on me. By the end I was really enjoying reading about the new wing & efforts to save various paintings. A good overview if you want to know more about our National Gallery and the people that developed it over many years.