Introduction to the Museum The Museum Museu Calouste Gulbenkian is a renowned art museum located in Lisbon, Portugal. The museum was established in 1960 by Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian, an Armenian oil magnate and philanthropist who amassed a vast collection of artworks during his lifetime. The museum's collection spans over 4,000 years of human history, from ancient Egypt to the early 20th century, and includes works from various cultures such as the Islamic World, China, Japan, France, and Portugal.
The Museum Museu Calouste Gulbenkian (Lisbon, Portugal) - A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction to the Museum
The Museum Museu Calouste Gulbenkian is a renowned art museum located in Lisbon, Portugal. The museum was established in 1960 by Calouste Sarkis Gulbenkian, an Armenian oil magnate and philanthropist who amassed a vast collection of artworks during his lifetime. The museum's collection spans over 4,000 years of human history, from ancient Egypt to the early 20th century, and includes works from various cultures such as the Islamic World, China, Japan, France, and Portugal.
The Museum's Collection
The museum's collection is divided into two main sections: the Founder's Collection and the Modern Collection. The Founder's Collection consists of Gulbenkian's personal collection, which includes works from various artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, Rubens, Manet, Renoir, Degas, and Turner. The collection also features ancient Egyptian artifacts, Islamic art, Chinese porcelain, Japanese lacquerware, and French decorative arts.
The Modern Collection, on the other hand, focuses on contemporary Portuguese art and includes works from various artists such as Guilherme De Santa Rita, Pierre Antoine Quillard, and Maria Helena Vieira Da Silva. The collection also features temporary exhibitions that showcase the work of both established and emerging artists.
The Museum's Architecture
The museum is housed in a modernist building designed by architect Ruy Jervis Atkinson, which was completed in 1969. The building features a series of interconnected pavilions that are surrounded by gardens and water features. The interior of the museum is characterized by its minimalist design, with white walls, concrete floors, and large windows that provide natural light.
Visiting the Museum
The museum is located in Belém, a district of Lisbon that is famous for its museums and monuments. Visitors can reach the museum by taking the tram or bus from downtown Lisbon. The museum is open every day except Monday, and admission is free on Sundays.
Conclusion
The Museum Museu Calouste Gulbenkian is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Its vast collection of artworks spanning over 4,000 years of human history provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of various civilizations. The museum's modernist building and minimalist design also make it an architectural gem that is worth visiting.
For more information about the museum, please visit ArtsDot's guide to the Museum Museu Calouste Gulbenkian.
Note: This article was written using information from ArtsDot.com and Wikipedia.org.