Book review of The House of Barnes: The Man, the Collection, the Controversy

Neil L. Rudenstine's "The House of Barnes" delves into the fascinating life of Albert C. Barnes, a renowned Philadelphia art collector whose legacy remains fiercely debated. This scholarly biography explores Barnes's acquisition of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Modern masterpieces, alongside his unique approach to art education, inspired by John Dewey. Rudenstine examines the historical and political context of Barnes's collecting, highlighting his innovative, worker-focused classes and the establishment of the Barnes Foundation. The book culminates in a detailed account of the controversial 2012 relocation of the Foundation to Philadelphia, analyzing the legal battles and public outcry that ensued. This updated edition features stunning color reproductions and insightful new perspectives, offering a comprehensive portrait of a visionary collector and his enduring institution.

Hardcover 53.81 USD

Paperback 42.72 USD

4.7 / 7 ratings

Review The House of Barnes

This book, The House of Barnes, completely exceeded my expectations. Going in, I was primarily interested in understanding the controversy surrounding the Barnes Foundation's move to its current Philadelphia location – a decision I’d always found puzzling. While the book certainly delivers a thorough and insightful account of that tumultuous period, involving court cases, financial struggles, and passionate public reactions, it’s so much more than just a recounting of a relocation.

Rudenstine masterfully paints a vivid portrait of Albert C. Barnes, the man behind the collection. He’s not presented as a simple eccentric millionaire, but as a complex figure whose revolutionary ideas about art appreciation and education were inextricably linked to his collecting. The author skillfully places Barnes within his historical context, illuminating the burgeoning world of American art collecting in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. I found myself fascinated by the descriptions of how he built his collection, the meticulous thought processes behind his acquisitions, and the reasons for his unique approach to displaying the works – a juxtaposition of masterpieces alongside artifacts from various cultures, a deliberate arrangement designed to foster a holistic understanding of art.

The book's strength lies in its ability to weave together several compelling narratives. It's not just about Barnes himself, but also about the intellectual currents of his time, his deep friendship and collaboration with John Dewey, and his philosophy of art education – a philosophy that initially thrived in his factory but ultimately led to the creation of the Barnes Foundation. The author delves into comparisons with other major American collections, helping the reader understand the significance and unique character of Barnes's assemblage of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Modern masterpieces. The explanation of why he eventually ceased collecting Picasso, for example, was particularly illuminating.

Perhaps the most significant contribution of the book, however, is its balanced treatment of the controversial move. Rather than simply taking sides, Rudenstine presents a fair and comprehensive analysis of the factors that contributed to the relocation, acknowledging the complexities of the Foundation's financial situation and the diverse perspectives of those involved. It's this judicious approach that allows the reader to form their own informed opinion on the matter, rather than being presented with a pre-packaged narrative.

The inclusion of color plates showcasing some of the collection’s highlights is a welcome addition, providing a visual feast that complements the intellectual stimulation of the text. Having visited the Barnes Foundation myself, I found that the book deepened my appreciation for the collection and its significance. I had felt a profound emotional response to the art, and this book gave me the historical and intellectual framework to fully understand that response. For anyone interested in art history, American cultural history, or the fascinating story of a singular individual’s impact on the art world, The House of Barnes is a truly rewarding and engaging read. It’s a meticulously researched and brilliantly written exploration of a man, his collection, and the enduring legacy of his vision.

Information

• Dimensions: 8.43 x 0.71 x 10.94 inches
• Language: English
• Print length: 264
• Publication date: 2024
• Publisher: The American Philosophical Society Press

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