The Habit of Art

Marchionesses, abbesses, queens, aristocrats, consorts, daughters of industrialists or the upper middle class—woman collectors have bought, commissioned, preserved, and handed down works of art since the Renaissance, as a means of validating their political and economic power, displaying their intellect and culture, and expressing their faith. They developed a dependence on art and artists which subverted traditional roles and hierarchies. It was the only habit they could indulge in.

Alfred H. Barr Jr. identified courage, intuition, an understanding of historical significance, generosity, humility, time, and money as the attributes that led Peggy Guggenheim to become one of the greatest patrons of twentieth-century art. These traits were also shared by Isabella d’Este, Christina of Sweden, Felice Rondinini, and Isabella Stewart Gardner, who are some of the collectors discussed in this fascinating exporation of the Habit of Art.

• The event is part of the program organized on the occasion on the Festival della Bellezza.
• The museum will be open from 7 pm for participants to visit the permanent collection.
• Booking available online from August 28. Places limited.
• The Museum Café will be open from 7 to 8 pm.