The National Gallery of Art has an extensive collection of Historic and Contemporary artworks. The collection is considered as one of the best in Washington DC. the collection also features art made from garbage.
Here is a glimpse at some of the most significant displays in the gallery:
Ginevra De Benci By Leonardo Da Vinci
The oil-on-wood portrait was acquired by the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC
The Ginevra de Benci is often deemed as Washington’s Mona Lisa. This masterpiece by Leonardo Da Vinci dates back to the 15th century. The painting is beautifully portrayed by Vinci in his naturalism. It is set against a landscape and the subject has puzzled emotions on her face.
Ginevra’s is very somber in the picture. A Latin motto that means ‘beauty adorns virtue’ is written on the reverse side of the painting. This is the only Leonardo Da Vinci painting on a public display in the whole Americas.
Soap Bubbles By Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin
The idle play of children was a favorite theme of Chardin
The Soap Bubbles by Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin dates back to the year 1733. This piece of artwork is one of the most legendary yet simple displays in the National Gallery of Art. It captures a very simple and common moment in an uncommon way. It is created with a beautiful play of light and some mystery. Through the painting, the artist wants to imply the metaphor of life and also wants the onlooker to look at art in a deeper way.
Shaw Memorial By Augustus Saint-Gaudens
The bronze relief sculpture by Augustus Saint-Gaudens
The Shaw Memorial redefines the individuality of the African American since the time when they were set into a stereotypical perception. It represents one of the first all-black soldiers’ unit in the Civil War. The piece carries immense proud and heritage with it. The piece is from the contemporary era and was created in 1900. It also depicts the transformation of the African American people. The Shaw Memorial is one of the most popular contemporary displays in the National Gallery of Art.
The Getty Bronze
Also known as the Victorious Athlete, the getty Bronze is one of the most ancient and powerful displays in the National Gallery of Art. It is said to belong to the era of 300- 1000 B.C. The sculpture is also known as the Bronze Sculpture of the Hellenistic World. It towers over the visitors with its imbibing and sheer physicality. The Getty Bronze Sculpture does not fail to captivate the visitors.
Some Other Displays In The National Gallery Of Art Are:
The Death of the Virgin found in netherlands in the 14th century- The Annunciation by Jan Van Eyck: This painting is from the year 1434/1436
- The Adoration of the Magi by Fra Angelico: Belongs to the year 1440/1460
- The Alba Madonna by Raphael: This painting belongs to the 16th century
- The Beautiful Virgin of Regensburg by Albrecht Altdorfer: It belongs to the year 1519/1520