Hauptbau Galleries

Overview

Nestled in the heart of Basel, Switzerland, the Hauptbau Galleries form the magnificent core of the Kunstmuseum Basel, an institution celebrated worldwide for its extraordinary artistic treasures. The Hauptbau, or 'main building,' is a cornerstone of Switzerland's cultural landscape, housing a collection that spans from the early 15th century to the mid-20th century. Here, visitors embark on a profound journey through art history, experiencing masterpieces from the Renaissance, the Dutch and Flemish schools, 19th-century art, and key works of Classical Modernism up to 1950. It stands as a testament to Basel's enduring commitment to art, proudly presenting what is recognized as the world's oldest publicly accessible art collection.

History & Cultural Background

The Kunstmuseum Basel's lineage stretches back to 1661, a pivotal year when the city of Basel and its university acquired the Amerbach Cabinet. This momentous acquisition, a collection of significant works including pieces by Hans Holbein the Younger, marked the birth of the first municipally owned and publicly accessible art collection in the world. This pioneering act laid the foundation for an institution that would grow to become the most important art museum in Switzerland. The Hauptbau building itself, an impressive example of conservative modernism, was completed in 1936. Designed by architects Rudolf Christ and Paul Bonatz, it was originally conceived specifically to house and display this expanding permanent collection. Over the centuries, the collection continued to grow, necessitating several relocations within Basel before finding its permanent home in the grand Hauptbau on St. Alban-Graben.

What Makes It Special

The Hauptbau Galleries are distinguished by their impressively wide historical span and the sheer quality of their holdings. It is renowned for possessing the largest collection of works by the Holbein family, offering an unparalleled insight into the German Renaissance. Beyond Holbein, the galleries feature pivotal pieces by other Renaissance masters such as Konrad Witz and Lucas Cranach the Elder, alongside significant works from the Flemish and Dutch schools, including those by Peter Paul Rubens and Rembrandt. The transition into the 19th and early 20th centuries is equally compelling, with key works by Impressionists like Claude Monet and Paul Cézanne, as well as masterpieces by Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh, and Paul Klee. After the inauguration of the Neubau in 2016, which now hosts special exhibitions and later art, the Hauptbau has returned to its original purpose, exclusively presenting the museum's permanent collections up to 1950. This re-focus allows for a dedicated and immersive experience of art history's earlier periods, making each visit a deep dive into specific artistic movements and their seminal figures. The Hauptbau is not merely a container for art; it is an architecturally significant building, listed as a Swiss heritage site of national importance.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

One of the most heartwarming stories associated with the Kunstmuseum Basel, and by extension the Hauptbau, involves the city's unique relationship with Pablo Picasso. In 1967, two of his masterworks, 'Arlequin assis' (Seated Harlequin) and 'Les deux frères' (The Two Brothers), which had been on loan to the museum for years, were put up for sale. The citizens of Basel, demonstrating their profound love for art, rallied together. Through a public vote and a massive fundraising effort, including significant public sector support, the city successfully acquired both paintings. So moved was Picasso by this genuine display of public affection and commitment to art that he generously gifted the city four more of his works. This 'Picasso Story' beautifully illustrates the deep cultural roots and public engagement with art that define Basel and its Kunstmuseum, making the Hauptbau not just a museum, but a beloved public institution. The museum's collection, over 300,000 pieces strong, offers a journey through eight centuries of art.

Visitor Perspective

Upon entering the Hauptbau Galleries, visitors are greeted by a thoughtfully curated journey through art history. The building's layout guides you through distinct periods, each floor dedicated to specific artistic eras. The ground floor now often showcases the art collection from Basel itself, while the second floor is home to the medieval and Renaissance art, alongside works from the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries. Ascending to the third floor, you'll encounter the art of Classical Modernism and European postwar modernism. The Hauptbau also houses the impressive Department of Prints and Drawings, known as the Kupferstichkabinett, on the mezzanine level, which boasts around 300,000 works on paper. The atmosphere within is one of quiet contemplation, allowing for an intimate connection with the artworks. The well-preserved architecture of the 1936 building complements the historical depth of the collection, providing an authentic and enriching experience for any art enthusiast. Whether marveling at the intricate details of a Holbein or reflecting on the powerful brushstrokes of a Van Gogh, the Hauptbau offers a timeless and inspiring encounter with humanity's creative spirit.