The Fitzwilliam Museum
Museum | Cambridge | England | United Kingdom
The Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge, England, is the art and antique museum of the University of Cambridge and houses one of the most significant collections of artworks and artifacts in the UK. It was founded in 1816 through the bequest of Richard FitzWilliam, the 7th Viscount FitzWilliam, and today comprises over half a million objects.
Key features of the collection:
Paintings and Drawings: The collection includes works by artists such as Monet, Picasso, Rubens, Vincent van Gogh, Cézanne, Degas, Rembrandt, Van Dyck, Canaletto, Constable, Murillo, Renoir, and many others. Particularly notable is the extensive collection of 19th-century works, including a significant number of Pre-Raphaelite paintings.
Antiquities: The museum boasts an impressive collection of antiquities from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, including sculptures, ceramics, and jewelry. A standout exhibit is a bas-relief from Persepolis.
Applied Arts: The collection includes English and European ceramics and glass, furniture, clocks, fans, armor, as well as Chinese, Japanese, and Korean art. Particularly noteworthy are the collections of Chinese jades and Japanese ceramics.
Coins and Medals: The museum holds an extensive collection of coins and medals from various epochs and cultures, providing insights into the history of money and currency.
Rare Manuscripts and Prints: The collection comprises illuminated manuscripts, literary and musical manuscripts, as well as rare prints, including works by William Byrd, John Bull, Orlando Gibbons, and Thomas Tallis.
Current Exhibitions and Events:
The Fitzwilliam Museum regularly offers changing exhibitions and events that illuminate various aspects of art and cultural history. Currently running is the exhibition "Glenn Ligon: All Over The Place," on view until March 2, 2025. This exhibition showcases works by American artist Glenn Ligon, who reinterprets the museum's collections while addressing themes such as identity, culture, and history.
FITZMUSEUM.CAM.AC.UK
The Fitzwilliam Museum is a significant destination for art and culture enthusiasts, offering a deep insight into the history of art and civilizations. It is a place of education, inspiration, and cultural exchange.
