Courtauld Gallery

The Courtauld Gallery, located at Somerset House in the heart of London, is one of the most prestigious and renowned art galleries in the world. Founded in 1932 by Samuel Courtauld, the philanthropist and art collector, the gallery houses an exceptional collection that spans from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, with a particular focus on masterpieces of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. Samuel Courtauld, a successful industrialist in the textile industry, was driven by an insatiable passion for art. In the 1920s and 1930s, he began collecting works by artists such as Cézanne, Gauguin, Manet, and Van Gogh, guided by refined taste and foresight. Courtauld not only wanted to build a private collection, but was also determined to make art accessible to the public and educate future generations of art historians and conservators. This commitment materialized in the creation of the Courtauld Institute of Art, an academic institution connected to the gallery, which is now one of the leading centers for art studies in the world. The Courtauld Gallery is particularly renowned for its collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works. Among the masterpieces on display is Édouard Manet’s “A Bar at the Folies-Bergère,” an iconic work that captures the essence of Parisian life at the end of the 19th century. The central figure in the painting, a bartender lost in thought, is portrayed with touching realism, while the mirror behind her reflects the lively atmosphere of the cabaret, creating a complex play of perspectives and reflections. Another highlight of the collection is Vincent van Gogh’s “Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear.” This painting, created after the famous incident in which the artist cut off part of his ear, offers a penetrating look into Van Gogh’s tormented mind. His face, marked by suffering, is illuminated by an intense yellow light, typical of his palette, expressing both the vitality and fragility of the artist. An interesting anecdote concerns the acquisition of Paul Cézanne’s “Montagne Sainte-Victoire.” Courtauld purchased this painting in 1925, recognizing its artistic value at a time when Cézanne was not yet widely recognized as one of the great masters of modern art. This painting, depicting the landscape of Provence with a geometric structure and a palette of soft colors, is now considered a milestone in art history. In addition to its permanent collections, the Courtauld Gallery regularly organizes temporary exhibitions that explore specific themes or present new research on artists and movements. These exhibitions attract an international audience and contribute to keeping the discussion on art and culture alive. Recently, the gallery hosted an exhibition on Edvard Munch, offering a new perspective on the work of the Norwegian painter known for his famous painting “The Scream.” The gallery is located at Somerset House, a neoclassical palace that is itself an architectural marvel. Built in the 18th century, Somerset House was originally conceived as a seat of government offices.