| Event Name: | Beautiful Souls |
| Description: | The ‘Souls’ were a sophisticated set of young aristocrats and society debutantes, who were drawn together by a shared interest in erudite conversation and high-spirited wit in the last two decades of the nineteenth century. Counting amongst their number many brilliant young politicians, such as Arthur Balfour MP, later Conservative Prime Minister, a pivotal figure in the group, and the charismatic daughters of prominent families, the ‘Souls’ had a powerful impact on British culture and society.
Focusing on portraits of key individuals, this display explores the group’s spiritual affinity with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood; in particular their support and close friendship with the artist, Edward Burne-Jones. Patrons and sitters for his work, several of the female ‘Souls’ inspired his depictions of nymphs and sirens. Featuring a range of prints and photographs, the display showcases the fine portrait studies of the group made by a leading ‘Soul’ - Violet Manners, Duchess of Rutland. An influential aristocrat and talented artist, Violet not only embraced the aesthetic lifestyle advocated by the Pre-Raphaelites, but also had the features of a ‘Burne-Jones Medusa’. |
| Type of Event: | Art Shows - Events |
| Event Agenda: | until 7 August 2012
Open daily 10:00-18:00
Open until 21:00
Thursday and Friday.
Closing commences at 17.50 and 20.50.
Mondays - first and second floors open at 11:00.
Last admission to paying exhibitions is 45 minutes or 1 hour before Gallery closes.
Christmas and New Year opening
The Gallery is closed 24-26 December 2011 and
open from 27 December, including New Year's Day.
Floor -2 toilet closure until 13 January 2012
Due to planned improvement works the toilets on Floor -2 will be closed until 13 January 2012. Alternative toilets are available on Floors 3, 0 and -3. Baby changing facilities can be found on Floors 3 and -3. |
| Event Location: | NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY |
| Event City: | London |
| Type of Venue: | Gallery |
| Station/Stop: | |
| Directions: | Room 28 |
| Event Start Date | 21-Dec-11 |