Exhibition Tour: Victorian Art

Enjoy a guided tour of our major exhibition, ‘Myth and Reality: Military Art in the Age of Queen Victoria’, with lead curator Susan Ward. Part of this year's Chelsea History Festival.

For Britain, the reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901) was a time of rapid social change and imperial expansion. It was an era that saw the Army spearheading military campaigns and holding an increasingly prominent position in the public consciousness. 

The soldier’s experience – both real and romanticised - was showcased like never before in paintings, prints and the illustrated press.

Myth and Reality: Military Art in the Age of Queen Victoria highlights the influence of artists on the British public's perceptions of those who fought for their country. Join the exhibition’s lead curator, Susan Ward, as she explores some of the artworks and themes on display.

About the guide

Susan Ward is Head of Art at the National Army Museum and specialises in 19th-century art and military silver. She is a member of the Decorative Art Society and the co-author of 'Silver City: 500 Years of Portsmouth's History'.

About the Chelsea History Festival

The Chelsea History Festival is an annual event that aims to entertain, educate and inspire through local, national and global history.

Founded in 2019, the festival is delivered by the Chelsea Heritage Quarter, a collaboration between the National Army Museum, Chelsea Physic Garden, the Royal Hospital Chelsea and Cadogan.