Overview: The French Revolution was one of the defining episodes in modern European history, and the consequences affected all levels of Western society. In celebration of the bicentennial of this momentous event, the library mounted this exhibition of books, prints, and photographs that highlight the wide range of research material in the collections. From cultural studies of its sociopolitical impact and artists’ depictions of and reactions to the revolution to art historical analyses of the way art changed in its aftermath, the paths of inquiry are varied and continue to be relevant today.

Organization: The exhibition was organized by the National Gallery of Art. Caroline Backlund, head of reader services, was curator.