I’ve always enjoyed watching BBC’s Fake or Fortune?, where art dealer Philip Mould and journalist Fiona Bruce investigate art mysteries—often mentioning the Courtauld Gallery. Hearing art historian Waldemar Januszczak discuss the gallery piqued my interest even more. Though housed within Somerset House, during London Fashion Week, the fast-paced schedule of runway shows and events kept me fully occupied. So, on this city trip, I finally made it a priority to explore this hidden gem of the London art scene, located in its North Wing
The Courtauld holds an extraordinary collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, alongside works from the Renaissance to the 18th century. Standing face-to-face with Manet’s A Bar at the Folies-Bergère and Van Gogh’s Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear felt like stepping into the ultimate treasure room of art history. No screen can capture their vibrancy or subtle details quite like seeing these works in real time.
The grandeur of the spaces is striking. Each floor highlights a different era, offering a fresh experience. To name a few: Degas, Gauguin, Monet, Renoir, Seurat, and the great Flemish masters Pieter Bruegel the Elder and Peter Paul Rubens. One of my favourite details is the ornate painted ceilings, while another room features fresh perspectives by students of Manet’s famous bar scene.
After taking in so much breathtaking art, it’s time for drinks and a little art retail therapy in the gallery shop. This museum offers an inspiring time-out from London’s fast pace—an essential stop for anyone seeking a vibrant mix of artistic wonder.
All images taken by the author.
