The large exhibition presents European art from a total of 700 years. In three thematically organized sections, visitors can explore the medieval creative period, the Baroque, Impressionism and Modernism. Masters such as Rembrandt, Rubens, Van Gogh, Dürer and Liebermann are included.
An 18th century collector who saves medieval art from destruction. An extensive collection that becomes the property of the city of Cologne. The idea of making the collection and other masterpieces accessible to the public: The history of the Wallraf-Richartz Museum is long and eventful. It is characterized by donations, expansions, postponements and relocations.
Since 2001, however, the now three-part exhibition has had its permanent home in a building that was built especially for the collection according to the plans of architect Oswald Mathias Ungers in Cologne's historic city center. Visitors will find medieval paintings, baroque paintings, impressionist and neo-impressionist art as well as modern masterpieces on 3500 square meters of space. A graphic cabinet with 75,000 sheets from the Middle Ages to the 20th century will amaze you with its unimagined wealth. It rounds off the impressive collection.
Altarpieces from churches, monasteries and convents
Art and culture enthusiasts will stop in front of altarpieces from churches, monasteries and convents. Stefan Lochner's famous "Mother of God in the Rose Arbour" is just one of many exhibits that require longer contemplation. Highlights by Dutch masters such as Rembrandt and Rubens hang on the display walls. Paintings from the Fondation Corboud attract attention, including Monet and Renoir. Van Gogh, Cézanne and Munch are representative of artists who ushered in modernism.
The huge selection of graphic illustrations includes drawings, etchings and watercolors by popular masters. Da Vinci, Dürer and Liebermann are no exception. The city of Cologne is planning an extension to the museum, which is due to be completed in 2023/2024. An additional 1000 square meters of exhibition space and 500 square meters for ancillary rooms are to be created.
