Review: “Wright of Derby, From the Shadows“ at the National Gallery in London

Joseph Wright of Derby, An Experiment on a Bird in the Air Pump, 1768.

An indoor gathering in An Experiment on a Bird in the Air Pump shows a scientist operating a glass air pump containing a bird while adults and children react with curiosity and distress under dramatic, focused light.

“Wright of Derby: From the Shadows“ is at the National Gallery in London through May 10, 2026. Advanced booking is recommended.

Review: “Wright of Derby, From the Shadows“ at the National Gallery in London