28 June – 28 July 2013 Gaspar van Wittel succeeded above all other artists in capturing the lights, mysteries and poetry of Rome, skilfully bringing together the painting technique of the Dutch School he had learnt during his apprenticeship with the intense emotional character of Roman 17th Century art, which he had encountered upon his arrival in Italy. The decision to inaugurate our new London Gallery with an exhibition devoted to van Wittel has for me a very special significance. First because throughout my career the work of van Wittel has been the focus of particular attention and research; and secondly, because I hope that this Gallery will be a window on Italian culture in the heart of London.