Museu Frederic Marès

The Museu Frederic Marès is an art and sculpture museum located in the Palau Reial Major, nestled in the heart of Barcelona, Spain. The museum is named after its founder, Frederic Marès, a renowned Spanish sculptor and collector whose extensive collections serve as the backbone of the museum's exhibits.

History and Foundation

Frederic Marès i Deulovol was born in 1893 and became one of the most influential sculptors in 20th-century Spain. His passion for collecting art and historical artifacts led him to amass a vast collection, which he eventually donated to the city of Barcelona. In 1944, the Museu Frederic Marès was established, providing a permanent home for his collections. The museum is housed within the historical Palau Reial Major, a part of the Gothic quarter that was once the residence of the counts of Barcelona.

Collections

The Museu Frederic Marès houses an impressive array of artworks and historical artifacts, primarily focused on sculpture but also including a wide range of other items. The museum's collections can be broadly categorized into several sections:

Sculpture Collection

The sculpture collection is the cornerstone of the museum, featuring works from the ancient period to the 19th century. It highlights different styles and techniques, offering visitors a comprehensive look into the evolution of sculpture over the centuries.

The Collector's Cabinet

One of the unique features of the museum is the "Collector's Cabinet," a personal collection of Marès that includes a diverse assortment of objects such as fans, watches, pipes, and cameras. This section reflects Marès' eclectic taste and deep interest in the everyday objects of historical significance.

Religious Art

The museum also boasts an extensive collection of religious art, including statues, altarpieces, and reliquaries, with pieces ranging from the Romanesque to the Baroque periods. These works provide insights into the evolving expression of religious devotion through art.

The Museum's Impact

Under the directorship of Pilar Vélez Vicente, from 1995 to 2012, the museum reinforced its status as a key player in Barcelona's cultural landscape. It has contributed significantly to the preservation and understanding of Catalonian art and history.

Frederic Mares