Myth and Reality: Military Art in the Age of Queen Victoria
This major exhibition of rarely seen artworks illuminates shifting attitudes towards soldiers and the Army during Queen Victoria’s reign (1837 – 1901).
This painting by Henry Nelson O'Neil captures the moment soldiers and their families are reunited after a long spell of separation. Here, we take a closer look at the artwork to gain a 19th-century insight into this often neglected aspect of military life.
This emotive oil painting is one of the highlights of our art collection. Details revealed during four months of specialist conservation have enhanced our understanding of the artist, Lady Butler, and her empathy for the ordinary soldier.
Today, the Army trains specialist photographers to capture its story. But the demand for images depicting soldiers' experiences is nothing new. Here we look at some of the earliest pioneers of military photography.
Field Marshal Frederick Sleigh Roberts was one of Britain’s most successful military commanders of the 19th century, winning victories during the Second Afghan War and revitalising the British campaign in the Boer War.
To satisfy the Victorian public’s growing desire for authentic images of war, newspapers began sending artists to accompany British troops on campaign. Their pictures formed the substance of much war reporting.
This major exhibition of rarely seen artworks illuminates shifting attitudes towards soldiers and the Army during Queen Victoria’s reign (1837 – 1901).
Explore our new exhibition ‘Myth and Reality: Military Art in the Age of Queen Victoria’ through a sensory tour guided by our Community Engagement Team.
To mark the opening of our new exhibition, ‘Myth and Reality: Military Art in the Age of Queen Victoria’, join us for a day of talks and activities, and the chance to meet soldiers who still serve in scarlet.
Join Julian Farrance for a hands-on introduction to the kit and equipment used by the British Army in the Victorian age. Part of our Victorian Soldier Spotlight.
Ian Knight examines artistic representations of the Zulu War of 1879 and how they continue to influence our understanding of the conflict today. Part of our Victorian Soldier Spotlight.
Join Peter Hart as he examines the decisive defeat of the Mahdist forces at Omdurman in 1898, and the lasting legacy for Sudan and Britain. Part of our Victorian Soldier Spotlight.
Elevate your embroidery skills on this two-day course inspired by the Museum’s collection and led by experts from Hand & Lock, London’s premier embroidery house.
Explore the world of Victorian military art with Professor Philip Shaw as he reflects on the relationship between wartime experience and domestic daily life.
Follow expert guide Edward Richards on a British Sign Language (BSL) tour of our new exhibition ‘Myth and Reality: Military Art in the Age of Queen Victoria’.