The world’s oldest art museum is a source of fascination for art lovers and historians alike. The museum, located in Vienna, Austria, is the Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM).
Founded in 1891, it is one of the most important art museums in Europe. The KHM houses over four million works of art from every corner of the globe, including some of the world’s most famous masterpieces.
The museum’s collections include works from antiquity to modern times. It is home to some of the greatest works of European painting and sculpture, such as Rembrandt’s ‘Self-Portrait with Saskia’ and Titian’s ‘Venus with a Mirror’.
The KHM also houses an impressive collection of antiquities from Egypt, Greece, Rome and Asia Minor. Additionally, its vast holdings include coins and medals as well as decorative arts such as furniture, ceramics and textiles.
The KHM has played an important role in documenting the history of art. Over the years it has acquired some significant works such as Raphael’s ‘St George’ and ‘The Battle between Constantine and Maxentius’, which have become part of its permanent collection. Furthermore, it has organized numerous exhibitions that have allowed scholars to explore different aspects of art history.
In addition to its impressive collections and exhibitions, the KHM also boasts a number of unique features that make it a must-see for any art enthusiast. These include its impressive library with over 500,000 volumes dedicated to art history and related topics; its conservation department that looks after all works in the museum; and its cafe where visitors can enjoy refreshments while admiring some classic works of art.
Conclusion
The Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) in Vienna is widely recognized as being the oldest existing art museum in the world today. With an incredible variety of artwork spanning centuries and continents, as well as unique features like its library and café, this iconic institution is truly a must-see destination for anyone who loves or appreciates fine art.