Hauptbau Galleries

Overview

The Hauptbau Galleries form the venerable heart of the Kunstmuseum Basel, a globally renowned institution and home to the world's oldest public art collection. Situated in Basel, Switzerland, this main building was meticulously designed by architects Rudolf Christ and Paul Bonatz, and inaugurated in 1936 to exclusively house and display the museum's permanent collections. It stands as a significant example of conservative modernism in architecture. Today, the Hauptbau continues its original mission, offering visitors a profound journey through art history, from the 15th century right up to the mid-20th century. While the museum has expanded with additional venues like the Neubau and Gegenwart, the Hauptbau remains the cornerstone, presenting an unparalleled array of masterpieces that have shaped Western art.

History & Cultural Background

The story of the Kunstmuseum Basel, and by extension its Hauptbau Galleries, begins remarkably early. Its lineage dates back to 1661, when the city of Basel and the University of Basel jointly acquired the Amerbach Cabinet, a private collection rich in works by Hans Holbein the Younger and other significant artists. This acquisition marked the establishment of the world's first publicly accessible art collection, a pioneering act that predated many national museums by centuries. Over the centuries, the collection steadily grew, necessitating several relocations before finding its permanent home in the Hauptbau on St. Alban-Graben in 1936. The museum's continuous dedication to collecting and preserving art, even acquiring works considered 'degenerate art' by the Nazi regime in 1939, underscores Basel's deep cultural commitment and humanistic tradition.

What Makes It Special

The Hauptbau Galleries are special for several compelling reasons. Foremost is its distinction as the repository of the globe's oldest public art collection, a fact that imbues every visit with a sense of historical gravitas. The sheer breadth and depth of its holdings are astounding, encompassing eight centuries of art. Visitors can explore:

• The world's largest collection of works by Hans Holbein the Younger from his Basel period, including iconic pieces like 'The Dead Christ in the Tomb' and the artist's family portrait.
• Important examples of medieval and Renaissance art, featuring masters such as Konrad Witz.
• Extensive collections of 17th, 18th, and 19th-century European art, highlighting Flemish and Dutch schools, and the genesis of French Impressionism with works by artists like Monet, Cézanne, and Renoir.
• A significant assembly of Classical Modernism and European post-war modernism, including pivotal works by Pablo Picasso and Marc Chagall.

The architectural design of the Hauptbau itself, a product of conservative modernism, provides a fitting and contemplative backdrop for these artistic treasures, allowing the art to truly shine.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

One of the most heartwarming tales connected to the Hauptbau Galleries involves Pablo Picasso. In 1967, two of his early Cubist masterpieces, which had been on loan to the museum, faced the prospect of being sold. The citizens of Basel, demonstrating an extraordinary passion for art, voted in a public referendum to purchase these works. Moved by this grassroots enthusiasm, Picasso himself generously donated several more of his creations to the museum, further enriching its modern art collection. This event speaks volumes about the enduring connection between the city of Basel and its artistic heritage. Additionally, the Hauptbau is not just about paintings; its mezzanine level also houses the museum's Department of Prints and Drawings, offering a fascinating glimpse into works on paper from different eras. The museum’s commitment to making art accessible is highlighted by its offering free admission to its collection galleries during specific hours.

Visitor Perspective

Stepping into the Hauptbau Galleries is like embarking on a curated journey through the annals of art history. The layout is generally intuitive, guiding visitors chronologically from the solemn power of Renaissance works to the vibrant expressions of Impressionism and the revolutionary forms of modern art. You'll find yourself moving from the striking realism of Hans Holbein the Younger's portraits to the evocative brushstrokes of a Vincent Van Gogh. The building's design, with its focus on presenting the permanent collection, fosters a reflective environment, allowing for quiet contemplation of each masterpiece. For those planning a visit, the Hauptbau is conveniently located and accessible. While photography for private use is generally permitted without flash, it's good to remember the 50-centimeter rule: always maintain a respectful distance from the artworks to protect these invaluable cultural assets. The museum also ensures accessibility with wheelchair-friendly entrances and facilities, striving to make its vast collection enjoyable for everyone. The Hauptbau offers not just a viewing experience, but an immersive encounter with the profound legacy of art history in the heart of Basel.