Naval Officers of World War I by Sir Arthur Stockdale Cope is one of three large group portraits commissioned by the South African financier Sir Abraham (‘Abe’) Bailey in the aftermath of the Great War. The other two portraits, Statesmen of World War 1 by Sir John Lavery and General Officers of World War 1by John Singer Sargent are on permanent display in Room 30. Owing to poor condition, Naval Officers has not been seen for several decades. However, following a recent successful appeal for necessary funds to restore the work, the present display returns this important painting to public view on our fresh Balcony Gallery, juxtaposing traditional and contemporary portraiture.
This light and innovative space, also displaying familiar faces from the 1960s to 1990s, is ideal for a reception. It also works perfectly when combined with the adjacent Victorian Galleries to provide a contrast of spaces and transition through time to impress your guests.
To host a reception and find out the dates that are still available contact venuehire@npg.org.uk or phone 0207 312 2419.
Image credits:
Balcony Gallery © National Portrait Gallery, London
Naval Officers of World War I by Sir Arthur Stockdale Cope, 1921 © National Portrait Gallery, London