The galleries will house 1,100 objects from the V&A's collection of 17th- and 18th-century European art, and will be unveiled to the public on Wednesday 9 December.

[quote=Sir Peter Luff, Chair of HLF]"It’s thanks to National Lottery players that we have been able to support this key piece of the wider FuturePlan jigsaw.”[/quote]

Four large galleries will introduce the story of art and design between 1600 and 1815 in chronological sequence, alternating with three smaller galleries that focus on specific activities. The collection comprises some of the most magnificent works held by the V&A, including examples of textiles and fashion, painting and sculpture and furniture and metalwork.  Many objects were made in Europe for the period’s most discerning leaders of taste such as Louis XIV, Marie Antoinette, Catherine the Great and Napoleon.

Martin Roth, V&A Director, said: “These new galleries are a major development in our ambitious programme to renew the architecture of the V&A for the 21st century and, at the same time, re-examine and re-present our collection for our visitors.”  

FuturePlan

The galleries are part of FuturePlan, an ambitious initiative transforming the V&A by redeveloping visitor facilities and making the collections more accessible. Using forward-thinking architects and designers, it aims to restore modern design and innovation to the heart of the museum space. The Europe 1600-1815 galleries have been designed by ZMMA, a London-based practice. 

Sir Peter Luff, Chair of HLF, said: “The opening of the Europe 1600-1815 Galleries is witness to the V&A’s vision and commitment to redeveloping its South Kensington site. It’s thanks to National Lottery players that we have been able to support this key piece of the wider FuturePlan jigsaw.”

How to find out more

Find out more about the galleries on the V&A website.