The Royal Hospital Chelsea holds a unique collection of works that illustrate its development from the opening in 1692 through 320 years of unbroken service to the nation, Army and local community. The collection focuses on the buildings, occupants and personalities associated with the Hospital, particularly those of the Monarchy and the Chelsea Pensioners, but it does not specifically illustrate the Army’s history, although some aspects are covered. Contemporary images of the disparate personalities involved in the establishment and running of the Royal Hospital have been gathered together, representing the very special relationship that it has with both the Soldier and Society at large through the depiction of many characters both large and small, influential and less important in society, however at the same time all part of the same rich fabric of life that is the Home of the Chelsea Pensioners, 'The Gentlemen and now Women in Scarlet!' The collection ranges from 'The Greate Peece' from Sir Anthony Van Dyck’s studio to the contemporary montage of 'Chlesea Pensioners' portraits by June Mendoza.