Writings on Art History:
* "Kunstwerke und Künstler in England und Paris" (Artworks and Artists in England and Paris) (1837-1839) - This multi-volume work, published in three parts, was a significant contribution to art history. It discussed the art collections and artists of England and France, providing detailed descriptions and critical analyses.
* "Treasures of Art in Great Britain" (1854) - This book was a compilation of his observations and analyses of the art collections in Great Britain, covering both public and private collections. It was a valuable resource for art historians and collectors.
* "Galleries and Cabinets of Art in England" (1857) - Another volume detailing the art collections of England, focusing on the different galleries and cabinets where art was housed.
Contributions to Museum Curatorship:
* Waagen served as Director of the Berlin Art Gallery from 1844 to 1868. During his tenure, he significantly expanded and improved the collection.
* He was also instrumental in establishing the National Gallery in London and played a key role in shaping its early collection.
While Waagen was a prolific writer on art history, he is perhaps best known for his deep knowledge and meticulous observations of the art collections of his time. His writings offered detailed descriptions and analyses of artworks, helping to establish a foundation for the study of art history.