Gerard Vaughan (art historian)

Gerard Vaughan (born 1953) is a British art historian specializing in nineteenth-century European painting, particularly German and Austrian art. He is a museum director and curator, known for his leadership roles at major institutions.

Vaughan was educated at Ampleforth College and then studied at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he received his PhD. His doctoral research focused on Caspar David Friedrich.

He served as Director of the National Museum of Wales from 1999 to 2004. He then became Director of the British Museum in London, a position he held from 2004 to 2011. During his tenure at the British Museum, he oversaw major exhibitions and acquisitions, and addressed issues relating to the museum's vast collection and its global reach.

Following his time at the British Museum, Vaughan was appointed Director of the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia, from 2012 to 2017. Under his directorship, the Gallery underwent significant expansion and renovation projects. He focused on enhancing the museum's international profile and developing its collection.

After stepping down from his role at the National Gallery of Victoria, Vaughan has continued to be involved in the art world as a consultant and writer. He remains a prominent figure in the field of art history and museum leadership. His publications include works on Caspar David Friedrich and other aspects of Romantic and nineteenth-century art.