A BOOK exploring the most impressive art pieces in Scotland will be released this week.
‘100 Masterpieces from the National Galleries of Scotland’, written by Sir John Leighton, brings together some of the greatest and best-loved treasures from galleries across the country.
These include the Scottish National Gallery, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.
Sir Leighton’s selection of highlights includes major works by some of the most celebrated names in art history, from Titian, Rembrandt and Vermeer right through to Picasso, Hockney and Warhol.
This beautifully designed book, which runs to 240 pages and is published in both hardback and paperback editions, evokes the collection’s special character, highlighting the distinctive interplay between Scottish and international art.
Sir John Leighton was appointed Director-General of the National Galleries of Scotland in 2006, having previously been Director of the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam and Curator of 19th-century paintings at the National Gallery in London.
There will be a public launch of 100 Masterpieces on the evening of Wednesday 8 July between 2 and 4pm at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery. This free event will include an introduction and book signing from John Leighton.
Sir John Leighton, Director-General of the National Galleries of Scotland, said: “This book is intended to celebrate the amazing quality and range of Scotland’s national art collections which rank among the best in the world.
“The book is also a tribute to the people who have helped to shape the collection since the National Gallery of Scotland first opened back in the 19th century, including the many benefactors, donors and patrons who have wished to share their passion for art with the wider public.”