Leicester Museum & Art Gallery stands as a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage, offering a fascinating journey through time and art. Nestled on the historic New Walk, a picturesque pedestrian pathway dating back to 1785, this museum has been a beloved institution since its opening in 1849. Originally designed by Joseph Hansom, the inventor of the Hansom cab, the building has seen numerous expansions, the latest in 2011, to accommodate its growing collections and exhibitions.
The origins of Leicester Museum & Art Gallery trace back to 1836 when the building was initially constructed as a school. Acquired by the Leicester Corporation in 1848, the site was transformed into one of the first public museums in the country. The museum opened its doors in 1849, thanks to the enthusiastic support of the city's Literary and Philosophical Society, which donated an impressive collection of 10,000 objects.
Over the years, the museum expanded significantly. In 1873, a new lecture hall and an adjacent art school building were added. By 1892, further extensions bridged the gap between the museum and the art school, incorporating new art galleries and a council chamber. The art school eventually relocated in 1897, freeing up space for the museum's growing collections.
Among the museum's notable patrons is Sir David Attenborough, who frequently visited as a child. His early explorations and discoveries at the museum played a significant role in shaping his illustrious career in natural history. In 2011, he inaugurated the Dinosaur Gallery, a highlight of the museum's extensive exhibits.
Visitors to Leicester Museum & Art Gallery are greeted with a diverse array of exhibitions that span science, history, and art. The museum's collections are a treasure trove of knowledge and beauty, offering something for everyone, from curious children to seasoned art enthusiasts.
One of the museum's most renowned exhibits is the Egyptian Collection, which features an array of artifacts from ancient Egypt. This collection includes four mummies, acquired between 1859 and 1928, along with sarcophagi and other ancient objects. The exhibit provides a captivating glimpse into the life and death practices of the ancient Egyptians, enriched by recent expansions in 2018 and the acquisition of the statue of Sethmose and Isisnofret in 2020.
The Dinosaur Gallery is a must-see for visitors of all ages. It houses impressive dinosaur and fossil collections, including two significant dinosaur skeletons: a 15-meter-long Cetiosaurus from Rutland and a Plesiosaur from Barrow upon Soar. The Cetiosaurus is one of the most complete sauropod skeletons in the world, while the Charnia fossil is notable for being the first described fossil from Precambrian rock.
The museum's natural history section features an extensive collection of preserved animals, fossils, minerals, and rocks. This exhibit offers a comprehensive overview of the natural world and the history of life on Earth, making it a fascinating stop for anyone interested in biology and geology.
The World Arts Collection showcases art and crafts from various cultures around the globe. Visitors can admire masks, sculptures, and textiles from Africa, Asia, and the Americas, providing a rich tapestry of human creativity and cultural expression.
The art gallery at Leicester Museum & Art Gallery displays works by British and European artists, ranging from the 17th to the 20th centuries. The collection includes modern and contemporary art, with regular special exhibitions that keep the gallery's offerings fresh and exciting.
The museum is renowned for its special exhibitions, which cover a wide range of topics. Past exhibitions have included displays on Wallace and Gromit, the search for the remains of Richard III, and explorations of war and peace. In 2007, the museum showcased over 100 ceramics by Picasso, donated by Sir Richard Attenborough.
Leicester Museum & Art Gallery is home to the largest collection of German Expressionist art in the UK. This collection includes works by Max Beckmann, Otto Dix, Erich Heckel, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, Franz Marc, Otto Mueller, Gabriele Münter, Emil Nolde, and Karl Schmidt-Rottluff. The collection's origins date back to the 1940s when Trevor Thomas, the museum's curator, befriended Thekla Hess, a German-Jewish art collector. Their collaboration led to a groundbreaking exhibition in 1944 and the acquisition of several key works for the museum.
Leicester Museum & Art Gallery is more than just a museum; it's a vibrant cultural hub that reflects the city's rich history and diverse artistic heritage. Whether you're exploring ancient Egyptian artifacts, marveling at dinosaur skeletons, or admiring world-class art, a visit to this museum is an enriching experience that shouldn't be missed. So, take a leisurely stroll down New Walk and immerse yourself in the wonders of Leicester Museum & Art Gallery – a true gem in the heart of Leicester!
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