The National Gallery in London features key Van Gogh works like Sunflowers and Van Gogh’s Chair in Room 43 on Level 2. These paintings highlight distinct periods of Van Gogh’s career and are displayed alongside Monet and Cézanne, emphasizing his influence on modern painting. Visitors can explore his style from Arles and Saint-Rémy, with pieces often part of special exhibitions. Further information reveals more about Van Gogh’s artistic development and major upcoming events at the gallery.
The National Gallery in London houses several important works by Vincent van Gogh, showcasing key pieces from his Arles and Saint-Rémy periods. Among these, Sunflowers (1888) stands out as one of the most recognizable paintings in art history and a central highlight within the Gallery’s collection. Painted in Arles to decorate the Yellow House for Paul Gauguin’s visit, this oil on canvas depicts 15 sunflowers at different stages of life in a simple earthenware vase against a pale-yellow background. The thick impasto and mainly yellow palette demonstrate Van Gogh’s expressive use of color. It is one of five major Sunflowers versions held worldwide and was acquired by the National Gallery in 1924 through the Courtauld Fund, inventory number NG3863. These Sunflowers paintings celebrate both friendship and nature’s beauty, themes deeply embedded in Van Gogh’s intentions. The National Gallery’s collection offers a wealth of artistic heritage that enhances the appreciation of Van Gogh’s genius.
Van Gogh’s Chair (1888), another significant work from his Arles period, was acquired the same year as Sunflowers, marking early institutional recognition of Van Gogh’s importance. This painting provides an intimate look into his simple interior environment. The National Gallery’s collection is renowned for encompassing major traditions of Western European painting, which enhances the context in which Van Gogh’s works are displayed.
From the Saint-Rémy period, the Gallery holds A Wheatfield with Cypresses (1889) and Long Grass with Butterflies (1890), both acquired in the 1920s. Together, these works form core highlights of the Post-Impressionist strand within the Gallery’s 18th to early 20th-century collection, demonstrating Van Gogh’s development and distinctive style.
Visitors can view Sunflowers and several other Van Gogh works in Room 43 on Level 2, where the paintings are integrated with pieces by Monet, Degas, and Cézanne. This setting emphasizes Van Gogh’s role in the broader evolution of modern painting and color theory. The Gallery periodically loans these works for international exhibitions, but they generally remain anchored in the main collection.
The upcoming “Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers” exhibition, scheduled from September 14, 2024, to January 19, 2025, will feature over 50 works, including the Gallery’s key Van Gogh holdings and significant loans such as Starry Night over the Rhône (1888) from Musée d’Orsay. This event celebrates the centenary of the acquisition of Sunflowers and Van Gogh’s Chair and explores Van Gogh’s poetic transformations of his surroundings in Arles and Saint-Rémy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the National Gallery’s Opening Hours?
The National Gallery opens daily at 10:00 AM.
From Monday to Thursday, as well as on weekends, it closes at 6:00 PM. On Fridays, the gallery extends its hours until 9:00 PM.
Closing procedures begin five minutes before these times.
Visitors should note the gallery is closed annually from December 24 to 26 and on January 1.
Advanced booking is recommended to confirm any additional closures or special event schedules.
Is Photography Allowed Inside the National Gallery?
Photography is allowed inside the National Gallery for personal, non-commercial use only.
Flash, additional lighting, tripods, and selfie sticks are prohibited to protect the artworks. Some paintings have photography restrictions, indicated by labels.
Commercial photography requires prior written permission. Visitors must avoid blocking views or disrupting others, and consent is needed to photograph people.
Photography is forbidden in staff-only or cordoned areas, and live-streaming tours is not permitted.
Compliance with copyright rules is the photographer’s responsibility.
Are There Guided Tours Available at the National Gallery?
Guided tours are available at the National Gallery, including official highlights tours lasting about 60 minutes and private or group tours that can be tailored to specific interests.
These tours cover key artworks and require advance booking through the Gallery’s website. Third-party providers also offer themed tours, often lasting 1 to 2.5 hours.
Audio guides and a mobile app provide additional self-guided options for visitors seeking flexibility.
How Accessible Is the National Gallery for Wheelchair Users?
The National Gallery is fully accessible for wheelchair users, offering four step-free entrances and lifts connecting all floors.
Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are welcome, with loan options available. Accessible toilets, including a Changing Places facility, are provided. Staff are trained to assist disabled visitors.
The gallery recommends using the Getty Entrance for wheelchair access. Public transport options are wheelchair-friendly.
Advance booking is advised for transport chairs and parking to guarantee smooth visits.
Can I Buy Van Gogh Merchandise at the National Gallery Gift Shop?
Van Gogh merchandise is available at the National Gallery gift shop, primarily located in the Portico Shop on Level 2.
The shop offers a variety of Van Gogh-themed items, including prints, clothing, accessories, jewellery, homeware, puzzles, and books.
Visitors can purchase these products onsite or online through the official National Gallery shop.
Online shopping allows international buyers to order Van Gogh goods after their visit, with options filtered by artist and product type for convenience.
