Highlights
The National Galleries of Scotland’s permanent collection is among the best in the world. Dating from the early Renaissance to the present day, it boasts works by some of the most important artists in history, as well as portraits of great Scots and the world’s most comprehensive collection of Scottish art. As part of its commitment to Duff House, the National Galleries provides most of the house’s artworks, opening up Scotland’s national collection of fine art to new audiences. Highlights include works by El Greco, Gainsborough and Raeburn. In addition to Duff House, works on permanent loan from the national collections can also be seen at Paxton House, in Berwick-on-Tweed.
One of the finest works at Duff House is El Greco’s St Jerome in Penitence dated about 1595-1600. The saint was the translator of the bible and is shown beating himself with a stone. The picture is full of symbols reflecting the passing of time and the vanities of life.
Recent arrivals to Duff House include an impressive portrait of John Campbell, 4th Duke of Argyll (c1693-1770) by Thomas Gainsborough, dated 1767. The Duke is wearing his magnificent peer's robes, a perfect subject for the artist's dazzling brushwork. He wears the chain of the Order of the Thistle, rests one hand on his coronet and in the other, holds the baton of Hereditary Master of the King's Household. In 1745 the Duke defended the west of Scotland against Bonnie Prince Charlie's forces and in 1746, succeeded the Duke of Cumberland as commander in Scotland.
Other works worth looking out for during your visit are William Etty’s enormous 19th century canvas The Combat, designed to symbolise the Beauty of Mercy, Allan Ramsay’s lovely 18th century portrait of Mrs Daniel Cunyngham, in its original fame and specially restored to hang here, and a fine collection of portraits by Henry Raeburn.
More information on the highlights of the permanent collection to follow so watch this space …. Meanwhile if you would like to find out more about the National Galleries of Scotland then why not look at the collection online
