Roentgen-Museum

Located in the charming town of Neuwied in Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany, the Roentgen-Museum is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the world of 18th-century luxury furniture and the fascinating history of the region. Known locally as the Roentgen-Museum Neuwied, this museum is dedicated to the craftsmanship of the renowned Neuwied cabinetmakers Abraham and David Roentgen, whose exquisite creations once graced the palaces of European royalty.

A Journey Through Time

The Roentgen-Museum was established in 1928, making it the oldest museum in the Landkreis Neuwied and one of the oldest along the Middle Rhine. Originally opened as a district museum with a focus on archaeology, its collection has since evolved to highlight the opulent residential culture of the 18th century. The museum’s namesake, Abraham and David Roentgen, were master cabinetmakers whose luxurious furniture pieces were highly sought after by the European elite, including Catherine the Great of Russia, King Louis XVI of France, and King Frederick William II of Prussia.

The Building

The museum is housed in a building constructed between 1926 and 1928, designed by the Cologne architects Mattar and Scheler. Built in the Heimatstil with classical and baroque elements, the structure was purposefully designed as a museum and has retained its original charm. The building itself is a historical monument, featuring four floors of exhibition space totaling approximately 800 square meters. Surrounding the museum is a picturesque garden, home to ancient trees and various stone artifacts, including gravestones and boundary markers.

The Roentgen and Kinzing Collection

At the heart of the museum’s collection are the masterpieces of Abraham and David Roentgen. These include an array of secretaries, transformation tables, commodes, chairs, caskets, and clocks, all adorned with intricate marquetry and gilded bronze decorations. One of the most notable pieces is the Apollo Clock, a musical clock crafted by David Roentgen in collaboration with Neuwied clockmaker Peter Kinzing, which was delivered to the Russian court.

In addition to the Roentgen furniture, the museum also showcases portraits of the Counts and Princes of Wied from the 17th and 18th centuries, as well as views and plans of the baroque town of Neuwied. The museum highlights the religious tolerance of Count Friedrich Alexander zu Wied, who allowed the Moravian Brethren, an evangelical religious community to which Abraham Roentgen belonged, to settle in Neuwied.

Friedrich Wilhelm Raiffeisen

The museum also features an exhibit dedicated to Friedrich Wilhelm Raiffeisen, the founder of the modern cooperative movement. Raiffeisen served as mayor of Neuwied-Heddesdorf in the mid-19th century and established various associations and cooperatives to help the impoverished population of the Westerwald region. The exhibit includes a recreation of a typical Westerwald room from Raiffeisen’s time, complete with period furniture and household items, offering a glimpse into the lives of the “common” people of that era.

Special Exhibitions and Events

The Roentgen-Museum hosts several special exhibitions each year, focusing on topics related to residential culture and fine arts. Past exhibitions have featured jewelry, porcelain, and furniture design from various periods, as well as works by artists such as Wolfgang Mattheuer, Werner Tübke, K. O. Götz, and Rissa. These temporary exhibits provide an ever-changing and enriching experience for repeat visitors.

Visiting the Roentgen-Museum

A visit to the Roentgen-Museum is a journey through time, offering a unique opportunity to explore the luxurious world of 18th-century European nobility and the rich history of Neuwied. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about the past, the Roentgen-Museum promises an engaging and educational experience. The museum is easily accessible and offers a peaceful retreat in its charming garden, making it a perfect destination for a day trip in the beautiful Rheinland-Pfalz region.

In conclusion, the Roentgen-Museum is not just a repository of exquisite furniture and historical artifacts; it is a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of the Roentgen family and the cultural heritage of Neuwied. Its walls echo the stories of master craftsmen, visionary leaders, and the everyday lives of people from centuries past, making it an unmissable attraction for anyone visiting this picturesque part of Germany.