The Fitzwilliam Collection, Housed in the Perse Hall, Old Perse Grammar School, Cambridge, ca. 1822–25
Watercolour
The collections bequeathed by Lord Fitzwilliam were housed at the Perse Grammar School from 1816 until the present Fitzwilliam Museum building opened in 1842. Only academic visitors were admitted; the museum was opened to the general public from 1848. Darwin recalled that he often went to look at the paintings and prints as a student in Cambridge between 1827 and 1831: 'my taste must have been fairly good, for I certainly admired the best pictures, which I discussed with the old curator.'
While on the Beagle voyage in 1834, Darwin wrote to a friend, whom he thought might improve his knowledge of art when he returned to England:
