Background
Founded in 1824, the National Gallery (click here to access the National Gallery website) triumphantly stands in Trafalgar Square – a public square located in the City of Westminster, Central London. The museum houses a plethora of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and other artwork. Admission to the National Gallery is always free, perhaps an incentive responsible for the millions of visitors welcomed annually. When first opened in 1824, the museum stood at 100 Pall Mall, a townhouse owned by a founding member. Because of its small size, many looked upon the museum as a national embarrassment – a mere speckle in comparison to counterparts such as the Louvre of Paris.
In 1831, after exhaustive discussion, Parliament agreed to construct a new – more fitting – home for the National Gallery at Trafalgar Square. This location was selected because it stood in the center of London and, as such, provided easy access to persons from all social classes. “[It could be reached] by the rich driving their carriages from the west of London, and on foot by the poor from the East End." (The National Gallery).
In the Context of Brick Lane
Brick Lane, the National Gallery is referenced when Chanu, while riding a bus, inquires of the conductor if “the British Museum rate[s] more highly than the National Gallery” (Ali) or if he would “recommend gallery over museum" (Ali). The conductor becomes irritated and is dismissive of Chanu – an attitude that is implied as being racially charged.
Images
Image 1: Click here to view the outside of the National Gallery
Image 2: Click here to view the inside of the National Gallery
Image 3: Click here to view the first location of the National Gallery at 100 Pall Mall
Pertinent Citations
Ali, M. Brick Lane. HarperCollinsPublishers, 2004.
The National Gallery, London. “About the Building.” About the Building | History | National Gallery, London, https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/about-us/history/about-the-building?….