Student Scholarship

Document Type

Research Paper

Abstract

This paper examines the history, organization, and functions of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D. C.. Established by a Joint Resolution of Congress in 1937, the gallery was founded through the philanthropy of Andrew W. Mellon, who donated his extensive collection of masterpieces and financed the construction of a building to house them. Mellon intended for the institution to encourage a study and appreciation of the fine arts among the American people. The facility, designed by architect John Russell Pope in the classic Greek and Roman traditions, is notable for being the largest marble structure in the world, featuring a central rotunda inspired by the Pantheon. 

The administration of the gallery is overseen by a Board of Trustees comprising both ex-officio government officials and general trustees. While established as a bureau of the Smithsonian Institution, the gallery operates under its own by-laws and maintains separate financial and administrative control. Beyond the initial Mellon gift, the collection has expanded significantly through major donations from Samuel H. Kress, Joseph E. Widener, and Chester Dale. These acquisitions must meet a high standard of quality to ensure the gallery maintains its status as a premier art institution. 

Functionally, the National Gallery of Art provides numerous public services, including daily tours, lectures, and free concerts. It also maintains an extensive educational program, a research library, and a collection of color slides for academic use. The building itself utilizes advanced technical systems for lighting, acoustics, and air conditioning to ensure the long-term preservation of the artworks. Ultimately, the gallery serves as a vital cultural asset, welcoming millions of visitors annually to view its world-class collection free of charge.

Research Highlights

  • The Problem: Andrew W. Mellon sought to encourage and develop an appreciation of the fine arts among the American people by establishing a national gallery to house classic examples of historical art phases. 

  • The Method: This study examines the history, organization, and functions of the National Gallery of Art, utilizing primary interviews with gallery officials and analysis of Congressional resolutions and architectural records. 

  • Quantitative Finding: The gallery building cost 15,000,000 dollars; the Mellon collection was valued at 50,000,000 dollars; the endowment fund was 5,000,000 dollars; annual Congressional appropriations for 1953 reached 1,428,050 dollars; the collection includes over 26,000 works of art. 

  • Qualitative Finding: The institution operates as a bureau of the Smithsonian Institution but is administered separately by a Board of Trustees; the structure is the largest marble building in the world, featuring 26 subtle shades of Tennessee pink marble; acquisitions must meet the high standard of quality established by the original masterpieces.

Publication Date

1-1955

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