The building was constructed as a school for the Maharaja's children. Today a large number of works of art belonging to the
Maratha royal family are displayed in the
museum. The museum contains works of art collected by Maharaja Sir
Sayajirao Gaekwad III during his numerous trips out of
India. The major works of art in this museum are the paintings by European and Indian artists including a collection of the paintings of
Raja Ravi Varma, who was specially commissioned by the then Maharaja of Baroda. The collection includes portraits of the royal family in addition to the paintings based on
Hindu mythology for which Raja Ravi Varma was famous. There is a collection of sculptures in
marble and
bronze. These include copies of great masters in bronze commissioned by the Maharaja and also originals by renowned artists. One of the artists commissioned by the Maharaja was an Italian artist
Fellicci whose works adorn not only the museum but also the Lakshmi Vilas Palace. Some of Fellici's works can be seen on the Public Park ( Sayaji Garden also known as Kamati Baug by the locals). The museum has an oriental gallery which houses Japanese and Chinese sculptures and other works collected by the Maharaja on his visits to these countries. ==References==