The National Portrait Gallery

Unusually for an art gallery, some of the portraits on display here are regarded by some critics as artistically unexceptional. Their interest often comes from the people depicted in the art – figures such as Queen Victoria, William Shakespeare, the Rolling Stones and the Bronte sisters. Other pieces are important historical documents in their own right, such as the group portrait of the Somerset House Conference of 1604. Other exhibitions vary wildly, from portraits of renowned author Joseph Conrad, to collections of works by local Londoners.

Queen Victoria in her coronation robes, by Sir George Hayter 1838

William Shakespeare by John Taylor c1610

The Somerset House Conference of 1604

The gallery's biggest portrait is 52,000 times larger than its smallest.

The National Portrait Gallery is host of the well-known BP Portrait Prize, which is recognised as the best showcase for upcoming portrait painters in Britain. Although the recent choices of winners have been subject to some controversy, successful painters in the competition have often gone on to become highly successful.

Winner of the BP Prize in 2007 - Michael Simpson by Paul Emsley

Photo Copyright Paul Emsley

Before 1969, you'd never know if you were priviledged enough to warrant having a portrait in the gallery – because images of people still living were banned.