Apsley House Overview
The Collection Of Apsley House
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As a visitor to Apsley House, you will be awed by the rich collection of Spanish paintings, lovingly collected by the 1st Duke of Wellington during his military campaigns in Spain and Portugal. This compilation of artwork, one of the world's most eminent, is a treasury of renowned artists such as Diego Velázquez. Standouts include Francisco de Goya's “The Duke of Wellington on Horseback”, which offers a grand depiction of the Duke himself, a testimony to the military and political stature he enjoyed. Further, Velázquez's “The Waterseller of Seville” is a compelling depiction of everyday Spanish life, displaying the artist's profound understanding of human nature and mastery of light and shadow.
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The Duke's respect for art extended to the Dutch and Flemish traditions, resulting in an impressive collection of paintings that feature pieces by Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck, and Rembrandt van Rijn. Rubens’ “The Descent from the Cross” exhibits a dramatic use of light and shade, presenting the biblical story with intense emotion. Van Dyck's “Portrait of a Lady” is a study of elegance and refinement, portraying the aristocratic beauty of the period. Rembrandt's “Self-Portrait with Two Circles” is a potent reflection of the artist's introspective gaze, a masterpiece that has stirred art lovers and critics alike for centuries.
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Beyond the mesmerising paintings, Apsley House showcases an extensive collection of porcelain and silver items from all corners of the globe. These works give you an insight into the Duke's personal life and tastes, alongside the varying art forms and traditions of different cultures. Highlights include a meticulously crafted Chinese porcelain dinner service, a testament to Chinese craftsmanship, and a delicate Japanese porcelain vase, presented by the Emperor of Japan, reflecting the international relations and diplomatic exchanges of the time. An eye-catching silver-gilt epergne from the City of London also finds a place in the collection, indicating the ceremonial opulence of the British aristocracy.
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The collection of Old Master paintings at Apsley House is an extraordinary exhibition of artworks that were the pillars of European artistic tradition. Works by iconic artists like Titian, Raphael, and Michelangelo reflect the Duke's discerning taste and his affinity for the Old Masters. Raphael's “Madonna and Child with the Infant St. John the Baptist” illuminates the artist's mastery of portraying maternal tenderness and divine love. Michelangelo's “The Entombment” is a sombre representation of the Biblical narrative, emphasising the artist's command over anatomy and spatial composition.
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The sculptures at Apsley House are expressions of classical and neoclassical traditions, collected by the Duke during his European campaigns. Antonio Canova's “Napoleon as Mars the Peacemaker” is a larger-than-life representation of Napoleon, reflecting the political climate of the period. Bertel Thorvaldsen's “Jason with the Golden Fleece” brings Greek mythology to life in intricate detail. John Flaxman's “The Fury of Athamas” is an emotive piece that encapsulates the fury of the mythical King Athamas, a testament to Flaxman's proficiency in portraying dramatic narratives in marble.
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Apsley House holds a noteworthy assortment of 19th-century paintings. This includes John Constable's “The Hay Wain” which represents a significant turning point in landscape painting. Additionally, Thomas Lawrence's “Portrait of Miss Murray” is a striking example of the grandeur and elegance associated with portraiture of the time. Joshua Reynolds' “Portrait of Lady Caroline Lamb” offers an insight into the social milieu of the period and displays Reynolds' expertise in capturing the nuances of personality and appearance.
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Know Before You Visit Apsley House
- Location: Apsley House is located in central London, at Hyde Park Corner. The house is situated in the southeast part of Hyde Park, adjacent to Decimus Burton's arch. Its location is: 149 Piccadilly, Hyde Park Corner, London, W1J 7NT
- Timings: Apsley House is open for visits between 11:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. from Wednesdays to Sundays. It remains closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
- How To Reach:
- By Tube: You can easily reach Apsley House by availing a ride on the London Tube. You can get off at the Hyde Park Corner Station, located on the Piccadilly Line. The station is situated 200 metres from Apsley House. From here, a short 2-minute walk can help you reach your destination.
- By Bus: Several buses ply to the Hyde Park Corner Bus Stop (Stop 13) on a regular basis. This bus stop is located less than 900 metres from Apsley House, and a 5 to 10-minute walk can help you easily reach the destination. Some of the buses that operate on this route include bus numbers 9, 14, 19, 22, 38 and 52.
- By Train: You can also avail a train ride to London Victoria Station, which is located around 800 metres away from Apsley House.
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FAQs
What is Apsley House?
Apsley House, also known as Number One, London, is a historic mansion in the UK, once the residence of the 1st Duke of Wellington. Located on Hyde Park Corner, it's known for its magnificent collections of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, gathered by the Duke during his military campaigns.
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Are guided tours available in Apsley House?
Yes, guided tours are available at Apsley House. However, these tours are available for a minimum of 11 people, or a small group. These tours are great to make your visit to the Apsley House all the more special since they are led by professional guides who will provide information about the history of the house and its collections.
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How much time do we need to explore Apsley House?
You need approximately 2-3 hours to thoroughly explore Apsley House. This time estimate is based on the diverse and extensive collections it houses. During this time, you would be able to appreciate the notable masterpieces by renowned Spanish, Dutch, and Flemish artists, as well as the exquisite porcelain and silver artefacts. Furthermore, the Old Master paintings and the 19th-century art collections demand a significant viewing time. The rich history encapsulated within the house, including the Duke of Wellington's personal life, military campaigns, and political career, also contribute to the overall visit duration.
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When is Apsley House built?
Apsley House was built in the late 18th century, between 1771 and 1778 for the first Baron Apsley, Lord Chancellor Henry. It was built by the renowned architect Robert Adam, in red brick. Upon its completion, it was called Hercules Pillars.
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