"Gems from a Private CollectionII"

02.11.2006 - 14.11.2006

8 Kaarli Pst., Tallinn

The "Gems of a Private Collection" a part II
The Baltic German masters of art.

Introduction

The popularity of Baltic German art, amongst researchers and collectors, has grown in the last few decades. Baltic German art was the natural foundation for development of Estonian national art. For example A.W. Pezold’s and O. Hoffmann’s paintings, respectively influenced J Kцler’s and P Raud’s decision to embark on their study of art. Furthermore various Baltic German artists acted as mentors for young Estonian artists. Finally there is also a deeper cultural link between Baltic German and Estonian art, stemming from a shared homeland, nature, history and traditions.

Yet representation of Baltic German art in museums has been somewhat scarce and this is an aspect various galleries have picked up on. They have started working towards increasing the interest in Baltic German art amongst private collectors, something the museums have so far been unable to achieve. The galleries have sought out paintings in Estonia as well as abroad and thus have managed to increase the awareness and availability of Baltic German art. One of the forerunners has been RIOS, whose auctions already in 1996-97 featured some works from the genre and since then the collection has only increased. Owing to RIOS and their work in the field there is now a wider representation and grasp of E von Gebhardt and G von Bochmann’s work, as well as their influence on Estonian art.

For the fact that they have found some remarkable, often unheard of and at times rare examples, which all add a genuine contribution to Estonian art history, RIOS gallery should be thanked. The current exhibition hopefully helps visitors recognize the extent of their efforts.