Discover a fine art collection spanning 400 years and sept into the ruins of London's Roman Amphitheatre
Rossetti’s ‘La Ghirlandata’ is excitingly returning to Guildhall Art Gallery on 8 March.
La Ghirlandata, Rossetti’s “very best picture” and one of Guildhall Art Gallery's most popular paintings, will be back on display on Friday 8 March, after being featured in Tate Britain's ‘The Rossettis’ exhibitions in London and Delaware Art Museum.
About the Painting
Described by the Pre-Raphaelite artist and poet as “my very best picture”, 'La Ghirlandata' was acquired by the City of London Corporation in 1927 for its permanent art collection and is usually displayed in the gallery’s main Victorian exhibition space.
The 1873 oil on canvas depicts ‘the garlanded woman’ playing an arpanetta and looking directly at the viewer. The artist’s muse for the central figure was the actor and model, Alexa Wilding, with two ‘angels’ in the top corners posed by William and Jane Morris’ youngest daughter, May Morris.
Conservation Project
In 2018, Bank of America awarded an Art Conservation Grant to the City Corporation to facilitate an extensive restoration of the painting. The grant enabled conservators to undertake the restoration, which included scientific paint analysis and visual imaging to examine, test, and treat the painting and its frame.
- Find out more about La Ghirlandata's conservation project.
Free Family Activities
On Saturday, 9 March, the Gallery will be celebrating the women in your life and their collection with International Women's Day, Mother's Day and Women's History Month in mind as well as celebrating the return of 'La Ghirlandata'. The day will include storytelling, as well as the chance to create your own 'garlanded' artwork and hear about inspiring women on the pick-and-mix family art tour.
- Find out more about Guildhall Art Gallery Second Saturday family activities.
