Scottish National Portrait Gallery ***
Region: Edinburgh
Description:
The collections are housed in a spectacular restored Neo-Gothic palace which has a fabulous gilded frieze of Scotland's history running round the entrance hall.
The Gallery provides a fascinating overview of Scotland past and present though a wealth of imagery encompassing painting, photography, sculpture and film.
The displays in the 17 galleries follow a broadly chronological narrative, from the Reformation and Mary, Queen of Scots to the present day.
Canvases by the great masters of Scottish portrait painting – Ramsay and Raeburn – and of illustrious Scots – Walter Scott, Robert Burns and Bonnie Prince Charlie. There's also a glorious display of tartan – a parade of five portraits of men in plaids and kilts, including Major James Fraser in colourfully clashing tartan trews, coat and mantle.
Collection(s):
- Paintings,
- Photographs,
- Sculpture,
- Film