A Popular Handbook to the National Gallery, Volume I, Foreign Schools: Including by Special Permission Notes Collected from the Works of John Ruskin

"A Popular Handbook to the National Gallery, Volume I, Foreign Schools" by E.T. Cook is a guidebook written in the early 20th century. This work serves as an informative resource for visitors to the National Gallery in London, particularly focusing on the foreign schools of painting represented in the collection. The handbook combines historical context, detailed descriptions of the art pieces, and interpretations that guide readers in understanding the significance of the gallery's offerings. The opening portion of the handbook establishes the operational details of the National Gallery, including visitor access and admission fees. It emphasizes the importance of the gallery, as recognized by art critic John Ruskin, and details the arrangement of artworks therein. The introductory sections describe the general approach the handbook takes to educate the public about the various foreign schools of painting on display, positioning itself as an essential companion for navigating the art and history encapsulated within the gallery's walls. The text sets the stage for a more in-depth exploration of the individual schools, guiding visitors to appreciate the evolution and nuances of European art.