Providing access to art that was often locked behind the closed doors of Britain's private country houses and collections.

The images in the photo archive came from a wide range of sources and their acquisitions reflect the shifting priorities of the art historical sector and our organisation.

While the photo archive may provide an accurate view of the historiography of British art, it gives only a partial glimpse into the complexities of the British art world.

Addressing sensitive, outdated, colonial, and racist words in the description and interpretation of art and artefacts.