Mistakes

Throughout its history, the Gallery has diligently sought expert advice when acquiring paintings. However, despite acting with the best knowledge available at the time, not all acquisitions have turned out as intended.

Close Examination: Fakes, Mistakes and Discoveries explores some of the stories of mistaken identity behind National Gallery paintings.

These case studies demonstrate how Gallery experts have occasionally been misled – and how their mistakes were discovered.

The Baptism of Christ

Are two almost identical versions of Perugino's 'The Baptism of Christ' fakes or respectful copies?

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A Man with a Skull

Uncover the dramatic tale of the Gallery’s first ‘Holbein’

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Portrait of a Man (Victor Considérant?)

Will scientists and connoisseurs ever determine who painted this mysterious portrait?

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Scenes from Tebaldeo's Eclogues

Find out about the scandal that erupted following the purchase of these two dramatic panels

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Self Portrait

Discover how recent research has challenged the authorship of this small self portrait

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