Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas, Madrid

The National Museum of Decorative Arts was established by Royal Decree in 1912, initially under the name National Museum of Industrial Arts, following a precedent from the reign of Amadeo I of Spain. Its early focus was on research and learning for artisans, manufacturers, and designers.

The museum relocated to its current site on Montalbán Street in 1932. This building is a 19th-century mansion originally constructed in the 1880s for the Duchess of Santoña.

The building housing the museum was purchased by the Spanish State in 1941, which facilitated initial renovation work to adapt it for its institutional use.

In 1962, the building and its collections were officially declared a Bien de Interés Cultural, signifying its recognized historical and cultural importance.

The museum's collections emphasize the 16th and 17th centuries in particular, focusing on industrial or 'minor' arts such as furniture, ceramics, glass, and textiles, drawing inspiration from institutions like the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Following the example of the Victoria and Albert Museum, the National Museum of Decorative Arts illustrates the evolution of industrial or 'minor' arts, including furniture, ceramics, glass, and textiles.

In 1933, the museum hosted an artistic exhibition presented by Mexico, showcasing international cultural collaboration.

Isabel de Ceballos-Escalera served as director of the Museo Nacional de Artes Decorativas from 1919 to 1990, playing a role in the museum's management and development.