Nationalmuseum is Sweden's museum of art and design. It was founded in 1792, which makes us one of Europe's oldest museums of fine art. Our collections comprise paintings, sculptures, drawings and prints from 1500-1900 as well as applied arts, design and portraits from the early Middle Ages to the present day.
Nationalmuseum is not just a museum, but also a government authority. Our mandate is to preserve cultural heritage and promote art, public interest in art, and knowledge of art. This mandate is set out in an annual letter of instruction from the Swedish government.
We want to put social development in perspective and be an active player in contemporary society.
Nationalmuseum (both the museum and government authority) is led by a Director General.