Bath
Permanent collection

William Holburne’s Collection in the Posnett Gallery at The Holburne Museum

Explore the personal treasures and diverse decorative arts curated by the museum founder.

The Posnett Gallery presents the lifetime collection of William Holburne, offering a window into his personal taste and extensive travels across Europe. Visitors can examine delicate miniature objects, intricate cameos, and a prized collection of silver spoons displayed in the first-floor gallery. The selection also includes significant Flemish paintings and personal artifacts such as his original passport.

About William Holburne’s Collection in the Posnett Gallery at The Holburne Museum in Bath

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for William Holburne’s Collection in the Posnett Gallery at The Holburne Museum in Bath

Exhibition summary

This permanent exhibition in the Posnett Gallery showcases the eclectic lifetime collection of William Holburne. Visitors can explore a vast array of miniature objects, silver, ceramics, and Flemish paintings that reflect his personal taste and travels.

Curatorial context

The Posnett Gallery, located on the first floor of The Holburne Museum, serves as a treasure trove for the personal collection of William Holburne. The gallery is designed to display his eclectic interests and the objects he proudly curated throughout his lifetime within his own home. Among the highlights are drawers filled with miniature objects that invite visitors to explore closely, alongside delicate gems, intricate cameos, and a notable collection of silver spoons which were particularly prized by the collector. In addition to the smaller decorative items, the gallery houses a significant selection of paintings by Flemish masters, including works by Pieter Breughel the Younger. The display also features personal artifacts such as Holburne’s own handwritten passport, providing a unique insight into his extensive Grand Tour across Europe. This gallery offers a comprehensive look at the historical and aesthetic influences that shaped one of the museum's founding collections.

Admission and ticket notes

Entry to this collection is included as part of the museum's general admission tickets. Visitors are encouraged to plan their visit via the official museum website to review access and ticketing options, including online booking for general entry and membership benefits.

William Holburne’s Collection in the Posnett Gallery key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for William Holburne’s Collection in the Posnett Gallery at The Holburne Museum in Bath

Venue
The Holburne Museum
Current status
Permanent collection
Exhibition schedule
Permanent display (no announced closing date)
Artist line / attribution
Information not currently available
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