On the occasion of a new collaborative initiative between the British Embassy in Athens and the Benaki Museum, the UK Government Art Collection is delighted to lend seventeen works of art from the British Ambassador’s Residence, to be displayed on a long-term basis, in the Benaki Museum and at The Ghika Gallery. Among the works on display are significant historical and modern works integrated within the permanent display and responding to its thematic hang. Viewed in this context, the works will generate new and surprising encounters, and will emphasise shared histories and the strong cultural and diplomatic ties between the UK and Greece.

One of the highlights of this display is a portrait of Lord Byron by Thomas Phillips. The year 2024 marks the bicentenary of the Philhellene poet’s death and the showing of his portrait is a fitting commemoration of this anniversary. Works by Joseph and Anton Schranz offer an insight into 19th-century Greek islands, while paintings and watercolours by Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghika and John Craxton, displayed in the former’s modernist apartment, bring to life the enduring friendship and artistic influences between these two leading artists of the 20th century.

The UK Government Art Collection is a unique cultural resource that promotes British art by placing works in UK Government buildings worldwide. Selected for ministerial offices and diplomatic residences, two thirds of the Collection is on display in nearly every capital city across the world. Over 120 years old and with nearly 15,000 works of art spanning six centuries, the UK Government Art Collection continues to acquire works reflecting the diversity of British society. The Collection is committed to broadening public access and engagement through digital platforms and partnerships across the world.