Longest-Reigning Monarch

From tackling the destruction of World War II to reconstructing a scorched Windsor Castle, the late Queen devoted her reign to restoring Britain's material ...

[Artnet News](https://www.facebook.com/artnet)on Facebook: [Want to stay ahead of the art world? For instance, when Her Majesty entertained foreign heads of state and dignitaries on behalf of the British government, the Royal Collection was usually a centerpiece of the visit. Until the fire at Windsor Castle, the Royal Collection had been run directly by the Royal Household; however, in 1993, Her Majesty established a charitable trust with a mandate to conserve the artworks and enhance the public’s appreciation and understanding of art. When viewed in full, the decisions made by Britain’s longest-serving monarch create a definitive legacy —one that will live on in the material culture of her nation. Since then, the Royal Collection has been “held in trust” by The Queen—and now by her successor, King Charles III—as Sovereign for the nation. To put that in a larger perspective, Her Majesty, aided by the Surveyor of the Queen’s Pictures and team, have championed the dedicated restoration and preservation of artwork for 60 years. The remainder was paid [through proceeds generated](https://www.forbes.com/sites/joanneshurvell/2019/07/28/summer-opening-of-buckingham-palace-offers-public-access-to-state-rooms-gardens-and-art-collection/?sh=32ad764918c1) by opening the State Rooms in Buckingham Palace to the public for the first time. The Restoration Committee, chaired by her husband, Prince Philip, consisted of established conservationists, while the Design Committee, chaired by her son and heir, Prince Charles, involved distinguished architects. Today, the Queen’s Gallery has two annexes, one in [Holyrood Palace](https://www.rct.uk/visit/palace-of-holyroodhouse), Edinburgh and another at [Windsor Castle](https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle). [£20 million](https://www.commonwealthwalkway.com/place/the-queens-gallery-buckingham-palace/) expansion in honor of her 2002 Golden Jubilee, celebrating 50 years on the throne. More than any other monarch, the young Queen shared the royal treasures with her people as a boon for their morale and sense of patriotism. With the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, Great Britain finds itself in twin states of mourning and reflection.