On Friday, November 21, the National Gallery of Art’s Board of Trustees announced an impressive series of new acquisitions. From a collection of underground comic books to five sets of rare Venetian etchings, the recent additions to the museum’s collection are decidedly varied and unique. According to Earl A. Powell III, the director of the National Gallery, "These new acquisitions embody the innovation, continuity, and renewal that characterize art. The Gallery is very grateful for the continuing generosity of its donors and to the public for visiting us—from every corner of the globe—to view the treasures of our permanent collection."

The comic book collection was gifted to the museum by leading American art history scholars, Abigail and William Gerdts. The bequest marks the first time that comic books have been added to the National Gallery’s permanent collection.