Wallace Collection, London

Nestled in the heart of London's Marylebone, the Wallace Collection is a national museum that houses an exquisite collection of fine and decorative arts from the 15th to 19th centuries. This treasure trove of artistic mastery is displayed in Hertford House, a historic London townhouse that was once the residence of the Seymour family, Marquesses of Hertford, and Sir Richard Wallace, from whom the collection takes its name.

The museum's galleries are home to an impressive array of paintings, sculpture, furniture, arms, and armor, as well as porcelain. Notable within the collection are masterpieces by artists such as Titian, Rembrandt, Hals, and Velázquez, alongside an extensive assembly of French 18th-century paintings, including works by Watteau, Boucher, and Fragonard. The Wallace Collection is also renowned for its holdings of Sevres porcelain and an array of princely arms and armor.

One of the most captivating aspects of the Wallace Collection is the intimacy of its setting. Unlike larger museums, the domestic scale of Hertford House offers visitors a more personal encounter with the artworks, reminiscent of the private galleries of bygone aristocracy. Each room retains its original grandeur, providing a backdrop that enhances the aesthetic experience.

The Wallace Collection is a charitable non-profit institution, and entrance to the museum is free of charge, making it accessible to all who wish to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of these significant works. It remains open to the public all year round, except for December 24th to 26th.

In addition to its permanent displays, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, lectures, and educational programs, enriching the cultural landscape of London. The museum's courtyard restaurant offers a tranquil spot for visitors to relax and reflect on the magnificent art they have witnessed.