Lindenau-Museum

In the charming town of Altenburg, nestled in the heart of Thuringia, Germany, lies a gem of cultural and historical significance: the Lindenau-Museum. This art historical museum is not just a repository of exquisite artworks but a testament to the vision and dedication of its founder, Bernhard August von Lindenau, a Saxon-Thuringian statesman, scholar, and art collector. Established in the mid-19th century, the museum has grown to become one of the most important cultural institutions in eastern Germany, earning its place in the prestigious Blue Book of nationally significant cultural institutions.

The History of Lindenau-Museum

The Lindenau-Museum's origins date back to 1848 when Bernhard August von Lindenau opened his private collection to the public at his estate, Pohlhof. This collection included an impressive array of ancient Greek vases and a historical art library, which served both as a public exhibition and a research center. In 1876, Lindenau's descendants relocated the collection to a new, purpose-built museum designed by Julius Robert Enger, a student of the renowned architect Gottfried Semper. This new building, which still stands today, is an architectural marvel in itself, reflecting the grandeur and elegance of the 19th century.

The Collections

One of the museum's most renowned features is its collection of early Italian panel paintings. With 180 works, it boasts the largest specialized collection of such pieces outside Italy, cementing its international reputation. The collection focuses on works by masters from Siena, Florence, and Umbria, spanning from the 13th to the 16th centuries. Additionally, the museum houses approximately 300 plaster casts of masterpieces from Greek and Roman antiquity, Greek vases, and art from ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. The museum's collections also include works from the Italian Renaissance and Classicism, offering a comprehensive overview of artistic evolution through the ages.

The Turbulent Times

The Lindenau-Museum's history is not without its challenges. During the Nazi regime, many pieces of so-called degenerate art were removed from the museum. In 1937, 43 works by artists such as Heinrich Burkhardt, Lovis Corinth, and Lyonel Feininger were confiscated and largely destroyed. The post-war period saw further changes, including the sale of 196 artist copies from Lindenau's collection in the late 1960s, a decision that violated Lindenau's will but was driven by space constraints and changing attitudes towards artist copies at the time.

Modern Developments

In the years following World War II, the museum expanded its collections under the direction of Hanns-Conon von der Gabelentz, incorporating European paintings from the 16th to the 20th centuries and German sculptures from the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum also boasts a graphic collection of around 50,000 sheets, with a particular emphasis on print graphic portfolios from the 1920s and the works of Gerhard Altenbourg. In 2009, with the support of various foundations and institutions, the museum acquired over 100 unique works by Altenbourg, making it the largest collection of his works worldwide.

The Renovation and Future Plans

Despite its rich history and impressive collections, the Lindenau-Museum has faced significant structural challenges. The building's deteriorating condition prompted a comprehensive renovation project that began in January 2020. Although the main museum is currently closed for renovations, a selection of its treasures is temporarily displayed at an interim location in Kunstgasse 1, Altenburg. The renovation plans include modernizing the building's infrastructure, making it accessible, and enhancing the exhibition spaces to better showcase the museum's extensive collections.

The Unique Art School

One of the museum's unique features is its close integration with an art school, a concept initiated by Lindenau himself. The art school, known as Studio Bildende Kunst, has been an integral part of the museum since 1971. This combination of a museum and an art school is unique in Germany and reflects Lindenau's vision of fostering both the appreciation and creation of art. The school continues to thrive, supported by its own association, and offers a range of programs and workshops for aspiring artists of all ages.

Engagement and Art Promotion

The museum's commitment to promoting art extends beyond its collections. Since 1998, the Lindenau-Museum has awarded the biennial Gerhard-Altenbourg-Preis, which includes an exhibition and a monetary prize, to honor the legacy of the artist Gerhard Altenbourg. Additionally, the museum awards the Bernhard-August-von-Lindenau-Förderpreis to graduates of Central German art colleges, encouraging young and contemporary artists to engage with the public.

In conclusion, the Lindenau-Museum in Altenburg is not just a museum; it is a beacon of cultural heritage and artistic excellence. Its rich history, diverse collections, and ongoing commitment to art education and promotion make it a must-visit destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike. As the museum undergoes its much-needed renovations, it looks forward to welcoming visitors back to an even more vibrant and engaging space, continuing its legacy as a cultural lighthouse in Thuringia and beyond.