The Courtauld Institute of Arts is a major centre for the study of art history and conservation in the UK, as well as recently being named as one of the top three universities in the world to teach the subject. It is also a leader in research and contains two libraries, the Witt and the Conway, the latter having recently gone through a major digitisation project.
Previously the home to the Royal Academy, the Royal Society and Society of Antiquaries, The Courtauld took up residence in the late 80’s, though its origins begin much earlier. It was set up in the 1930’s by Samuel Courtauld, an industrialist, philanthropist and art collector. Originally held in Home House, which had been Samuel Courtauld’s own residence with a handful of students, the Institute now has a student body of roughly 500.
Image credit: Fergus Carmichael
Through The Courtauld’s world leading conservation work, exciting new discovers have been made including uncovering previously celebrated paintings as forgeries. Paintings by Botticelli, Pieter Bruegel the Elder and other exposed fakes will be put on as part of a free display this summer in Art and Artifice: Fakes from the Collection. Unlike other galleries who shy away from revealing this side of their collection, the Courtauld Gallery will instead be shining a brighter light on the subject and highlighting the incredible stories behind these paintings.
A tour or private view of the exhibition can be paired perfectly with a hire of the Courtauld Terrace, new sunny and bright outdoor area recently launched at the Gallery.
Image credit: Fergus Carmichael
For further details of an event or private view of the exhibition please contact: venuehire@courtauld.ac.uk