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Art and the decorative arts

The Royal Collection

Much of the fine and decorative art on display across our palaces remains part of the Royal Collection, one of the largest and most important art collections in the world. The Royal Collection is held in trust by The King for his successors and the nation, and is housed in 13 royal residences and historic palaces across the UK.

Many artworks can be seen in the historic settings and royal apartments for which they were originally commissioned or acquired. Others are displayed in temporary exhibitions or in purpose-built galleries, including the Cumberland Art Gallery and Mantegna Gallery at Hampton Court Palace.

You can find further information at rct.uk/collections, the online catalogue for the Royal Collection.

Cumberland Art Gallery

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Image: Peter depicted on the King's Staircase at Kensington Palace. © Historic Royal Palaces

Peter 'the Wild Boy' from Hanover: The Boy on the Staircase

Peter's life-size portrait is on the King's Staircase at Kensington Palace and was painted just months after his arrival in England. Read more about his life.

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  • Things to see

Cumberland Art Gallery

Discover masterpieces by Rembrandt, Caravaggio, van Dyck, and more at the Cumberland Art Gallery at Hampton Court Palace.

  • Open
  • In line with palace opening hours
  • Hampton Court Palace
  • Included in palace admission (Members go free)
Learn more
  • Things to see

Rubens ceiling

Marvel at Sir Peter Paul Rubens' ceiling in its original setting of Inigo Jones' spectacular Banqueting House.

  • Closed
  • Banqueting House
  • Included in palace admission (Members go free)
Learn more
  • Things to see

State Drawing Room

Discover contemporary Irish art from the collection of His Majesty The King in this elegant family space.

  • In line with castle opening times
  • Hillsborough Castle
  • Included in combined castle tour and gardens tickets (Members go free)
Learn more

Browse more history and stories

Art at Hillsborough Castle

Hillsborough Castle has become a place in which to see amazing art

The story of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

‘The Grandest House in County Down’

The Crown Jewels

The history of the Crown Jewels, including the Imperial State Crown - a priceless collection used to crown the kings and queens of England.