Last updated: 27 October 2026
Francis Bacon (1909 to 1992) was the Dublin-born painter of screaming popes and twisting figures. Here you will find our take on his work, where it has been shown recently, and the Bacon books and prints you can buy from Tate.
Our take on Francis Bacon
Bacon was born in Dublin in 1909 and died in Madrid in 1992, according to the Hugh Lane Gallery, which holds his London studio, moved to Dublin with its contents.
Tate holds around 50 of his paintings, including Three Studies for Figures at the Base of a Crucifixion (1944) and Triptych August 1972 (1972), according to Tate.
In spring 2026, Gagosian in Paris showed three late paintings: Study from the Human Body—Figure in Movement (1982), Study from the Human Body (1986) and Man at a Washbasin (1989 to 1990). The gallery notes he kept a studio in Paris from 1975 to 1987.
Francis Bacon: the essentials
- Born in Dublin in 1909; died in Madrid in 1992.
- Tate holds around 50 of his works and 24 archive items, according to Tate.
- His studio at 7 Reece Mews, London, was moved to Dublin and is held by the Hugh Lane Gallery.
- The Hugh Lane closed for refurbishment on 28 September 2025, for up to three years; Dublin City Council says the studio stays on site and protected, according to The Irish Post.
Francis Bacon exhibitions
- Francis Bacon, three late paintings, Gagosian, 9 rue de Castiglione, Paris, 11 April to 30 May 2026.
- We found no current UK exhibition.
Where to buy Francis Bacon books and prints
Tate sells these:
Francis Bacon FAQs
Where was Francis Bacon born?
In Dublin, in 1909. He died in Madrid in 1992.
Where can I see Francis Bacon paintings in the UK?
Tate holds around 50 of his works, including Three Studies for Figures at the Base of a Crucifixion (1944).
Can I visit Francis Bacon’s studio?
It is in the Hugh Lane Gallery in Dublin, which closed for refurbishment in September 2025 for up to three years.
More from CoolCuration
- Cecily Brown at the Serpentine review: a painter who has long looked to the Old Masters and to Bacon’s generation.
- Frieze Masters review: modern masters for sale in Regent’s Park.
- Great Art Explained: James Payne’s guide to how famous works were made.
- National Art Pass: discounts on big shows across the UK.
Think we’re missing something, got something wrong, or want to be featured? Contact us.
Main image: Francis Bacon, Study for Portrait of Van Gogh IV, 1957. Image courtesy Tate. Framed by CoolCuration. Exhibition dates and prices last checked: 27 October 2026.
No Comments.