Frick Collection: Director's Choice: Director's Choice

The Frick Collection was founded by Henry Clay Frick, a Pittsburgh industrialist, philanthropist, and art collector, and includes a grand mansion in New York with a collection of western paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts from the Renaissance to the nineteenth century, including masterpieces by renowned artists such as Bellini, Constable, Fragonard, Goya, El Greco, Ingres, Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Whistler.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 27 December 2020
Publisher: Scala Arts & Heritage Publishers Ltd

Henry Clay Frick, a prominent Pittsburgh coke and steel industrialist, philanthropist, and art collector, established the Frick Collection in 1849. Upon his passing in 1919, he generously donated his New York residence and an exceptional collection of Western paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts to the public. The mansion, designed and constructed between 1913 and 1914, exudes an aura reminiscent of noble European estates, creating a grand and intimate atmosphere for the art it houses, spanning from the Renaissance to the nineteenth century. The collection boasts an impressive array of masterpieces by renowned artists such as Bellini, Constable, Fragonard, Goya, El Greco, Ingres, Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Whistler. Additionally, it features exquisite examples of French eighteenth-century furniture, Italian Renaissance bronzes, and Limoges enamels.

The Frick Collection's holdings are considered to be among the finest in the world, and its significance in the history of art cannot be overstated. The collection's diverse range of artworks reflects the tastes and interests of its founder, who was a passionate collector and connoisseur. Frick's acquisition of works by artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Goya helped to establish the collection's reputation as a premier destination for art enthusiasts worldwide.

The mansion itself is a work of art in its own right, with its elegant architecture, intricate decor, and stunning gardens. The building was designed by the renowned architect Henry Hobson Richardson, who incorporated elements of French and Italian Renaissance styles into its design. The interior of the mansion is adorned with works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative objects, which are displayed in a series of galleries and rooms.

The Frick Collection's commitment to education and public outreach is also noteworthy. The museum offers a variety of programs and events, including lectures, exhibitions, and family activities, to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The collection's extensive library and research center also provides resources for scholars and researchers interested in art history and cultural heritage.

In conclusion, the Frick Collection is a testament to the power of art and philanthropy. Founded by Henry Clay Frick, the collection houses an exceptional array of Western art and decorative arts, spanning from the Renaissance to the nineteenth century. The mansion, designed by Henry Hobson Richardson, is a masterpiece in its own right, and the collection's commitment to education and public outreach makes it a valuable resource for art enthusiasts and scholars alike. The Frick Collection's legacy will continue to inspire and enrich generations to come.

Weight: 234g
Dimension: 169 x 190 x 7 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781857599695