Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum

In the heart of Brunswick, nestled within the rich cultural tapestry of Lower Saxony, Germany, stands the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum, a beacon of art and history. Known locally as the Herzog Anton Ulrich-Museum, this venerable institution has been a cornerstone of the region's cultural heritage since its founding in 1754. Named after its founder, Duke Anton Ulrich of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel, the museum boasts an impressive collection of around 4,000 art pieces spanning over 3,000 years of art history.

A Glimpse into History

The origins of the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum trace back to the Kunst- und Naturalienkabinett (Art and Natural History Cabinet) of Duke Charles I of Brunswick. This cabinet was established in 1754, making it one of the earliest public museums in Germany, second only to the British Museum in London. Initially housed in the Kleine Mosthof and later in the Große Mosthof, the collection showcased a diverse array of baroque and renaissance artworks, as well as non-European antiquities. The natural history collection later became the foundation for the Natural History Museum.

Transformations in the 19th Century

The 19th century was a period of significant transformation for the museum. The deteriorating condition of the Salzdahlum Castle, coupled with the Napoleonic occupation of Brunswick in 1806, led to the loss and subsequent recovery of many art treasures. By 1811, the castle was demolished, and the need for a new, suitable home for the collection became paramount. In 1882, an architectural competition was held, leading to the construction of the current museum building, designed by architect Oskar Sommer in collaboration with museum director Herman Riegel. This grand structure, inspired by the Italian Renaissance style and the layout of Munich's Pinakothek, was inaugurated in 1887 and remains largely unchanged in its exterior appearance to this day.

The Modern Era

The Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum has continued to evolve in the modern era. After the dissolution of the Duchy of Brunswick in 1918, the museum's management transitioned to a foundation and later to the state of Lower Saxony. In 1927, the museum adopted its current name. The Second World War brought challenges, including minor damage to the building and temporary occupation by the British military government. However, the museum emerged resilient, with significant renovations and expansions in the 21st century. A new extension was added between 2008 and 2010, housing the library, archive, print room, workshops, a café, and administrative offices. The main building underwent extensive restoration from 2013 to 2016, reopening with modern exhibition technology and expanded gallery space.

Exploring the Collections

The Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum's collections are a testament to centuries of artistic achievement. The painting collection, enriched over the years with acquisitions of Dutch landscape paintings and still lifes, includes masterpieces by renowned artists. Visitors can marvel at works by Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer, and other luminaries of European art.

Sculptures and Decorative Arts

The museum's sculpture and decorative arts collection is equally impressive, featuring items amassed by the Brunswick dukes, particularly Duke Anton Ulrich and his son, August Wilhelm. Highlights include the Herzog-Julius-Büchse, a partially gilded ceremonial rifle from the late 16th century, a writing desk by Hendrik van Soest from around 1700, and intricate timepieces like Caspar Langenbucher's mirror clock from 1649 and Christoph Rohr's spherical clock from circa 1600.

The Print Room

The museum's print room, established as part of the original 1754 cabinet, houses an extensive collection of prints and drawings. This collection, which began with works by Albrecht Dürer and expanded to include contemporary prints from Germany, England, and France, now encompasses around 145,000 prints and nearly 10,000 drawings. Significant additions include the August Vasel collection of print graphics and the graphic collection from the Herzog August Library in Wolfenbüttel.

Future Attractions

Looking ahead, the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum continues to expand its offerings. In 2024, the museum will unveil a new attraction: the historical coin collection of the Braunschweigische Landessparkasse and the Braunschweigische Sparkassenstiftung. This collection, comprising over 8,000 coins and medals, will be displayed in a specially secured exhibition area on the museum's ground floor, offering a fascinating glimpse into numismatic history.

In conclusion, the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum is not just a repository of art; it is a living chronicle of cultural history. Its walls echo with the stories of the past, and its collections offer a journey through the evolution of artistic expression. Whether you are an art aficionado or a casual visitor, the Herzog Anton Ulrich Museum promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.