Buckingham Palace Picture Gallery displays 120 paintings after major redisplay

This summer, visitors to Buckingham Palace can experience an enhanced collection of 120 paintings in the Picture Gallery, nearly doubling the previous display of 63. The transformation, completed on July 8, 2026, took 875 hours and introduced emerald-green silk wall hangings along with new lighting to enhance the viewing experience.

Anna Reynolds, surveyor of the King's pictures, remarked, "This rehang is an exciting and rare opportunity to significantly increase the number of world-class paintings on display for visitors, in line with our charitable aim to share as much of the Royal Collection as possible." The Picture Gallery is part of the State Rooms that are open to the public during summer months, attracting over half a million visitors each year.

Highlights of the Redisplay

The recent redisplay showcases several notable works, including:

• The Tribuna of the Uffizi by Johan Zoffany
• A Rough Dog by George Stubbs, believed to depict George IV's dog
• Portrait of Johann Christian Fischer by Thomas Gainsborough
• A new 2023 oil painting of King Charles III by Jonathan Yeo

Reynolds emphasized the importance of this renovation, stating, "It continues the longstanding tradition of renovations and rehangs in the Picture Gallery that have commonly taken place following a change of reign, and we are delighted to be able to share it with as many people as possible this summer."

The Historical Significance of the Picture Gallery

The Picture Gallery was originally designed to exhibit the art collection of George IV as part of architect John Nash's transformation of Buckingham House into Buckingham Palace. Although George IV died before the project was completed, the first paintings were hung after his niece, Queen Victoria, ascended to the throne in 1837.

Over the years, the room has been redecorated in various color schemes, including golden yellow, lilac, crimson red, olive green, and coral-pink. Today, it serves as a venue for the Royal Family to host important guests, including heads of state, and to hold receptions and celebrations.

Visitor Information and Experience

The Picture Gallery is open to the public during Buckingham Palace's Summer Opening, with tickets available through the Royal Collection Trust. This year’s display promises to engage art lovers and history enthusiasts alike, offering a rare glimpse into the royal collection.