In April 1824 the House of Commons agreed to pay £57,000 for the picture collection of the banker John Julius Angerstein. The 38 pictures were intended to form the core of a new national collection, for the enjoyment and education of all. Until a gallery building was constructed, the pictures were displayed at Angerstein’s house in Pall Mall. The collection was gradually added to by purchase and bequest to become the collection that is enjoyed by millions today.

Discover more about the history of the collection - click here.

The National Gallery was established for the benefit of all. With a commitment to free admission, a central and accessible site, and extended opening hours the Gallery has ensured that its collection can be enjoyed by the widest public possible, and not become the exclusive preserve of the privileged. The Gallery continues to pursue a vigorous and socially inclusive outreach programme, and caters to the needs of all groups in society.

Sebastiano del Piombo, The Raising of Lazarus, about 1517-19. The first painting to be catalogued by the National Gallery. © The National Gallery, London