McManus Galleries
McManus Galleries, located in Dundee, is a Gothic revival-style building designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott. Scott was commissioned in the 1860s to design the building by the British Association for the Advancement of Science as a memorial to Prince Albert following his death in 1861. The city also contributed £300, approximately £35,000 today, to help fund the project. In total, there were 168 financial contributors.
Scott was commissioned for his reputation and expertise in designing Gothic Revival-style buildings. At this point, he had already designed the magnificent St Giles Church, Camberwell, and the famous St. Nicholas’ Church, Hamburg. McManus Galleries was designed with a heavy Gothic influence, while remaining functional inside. It opened as the Albert Institute and attracted crowds on the grand opening.
Much of the original building remains, however restoration has gutted the interior and changed its layout. For this reason, the original character of the building is best observed from the outside. From here you can observe the crocketed spire, ornate octagonal fleches and large oval staircase with coped balustrade.
A walk around the building reveals intricate stained-glass windows of various designs. Sadly, a few original exterior features have been demolished. There was formerly a porch to the principal door and a stone fountain to the west of the oval staircase.
Today, Albert Institute is known as McManus Galleries and is Dundee’s art gallery and museum. It is home to a collection of art, including paintings by Thomas Musgrave Joy and several local artists. The building is Grade-I listed.
Research: http://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/LB24939
