The Kunstpalast’s collection, started by Johann Wilhelm II in the eighteenth century, contains some of the very best of modern and medieval European artwork.
The Kunstpalast is Dusseldorf’s best-known Art Museum. Located in the heart of the Old Town, it displays paintings from the old Masters such as the spectacularly lifelike Assumption of the Virgin by Peter Paul Rubens and Alexander with the Body of Darius alongside an impressive collection of modern art and sculpture from the nineteenth century onwards.
The gallery is large but easy to navigate, as its rooms are organised according to period and geographical region. Admire the subtlety of colour and detailed representations in galleries of seventeenth and eighteenth century works before looking around the more experimental work of the last two centuries. Highlights of the modern art section include the Photographic Archive of the Rhine Art Scene, dedicated to local photography from the mid-twentieth century and a significant display of 19th century Dusseldorf-school landscape paintings.
The Heinrich Glass Collection is also well worth checking out. Located in the Green Vault (or Grünes Gewölbe), it has more than 3,000 examples of glasswork dating back to the Merovingians of 584-641 AD. The collection includes luxury items from the pre-Roman era, medieval blown glass and decorative art deco drinking glass created by the twentieth century French artist Maurice Marinot.
As well as the permanent displays, there is a full calendar of temporary exhibitions and concerts in the 800-capacity Robert Schumann Saal. Details are available on the museum website and it’s a good idea to check what’s on before you visit. There’s something for every musical taste, including classical music, swinging jazz and traditional folk. Exhibitions range from internationally renowned artists such as Picasso and Warhol to more local talents including Konrad Klapheck.
The Museum Kunstpalast is open from Tuesday to Sunday throughout the year. It is easy to find as its situated right in the city centre, within walking distance of the Hofgarten. If you are coming from further afield, hop on a tram to Tonhalle or Ehrenhof station, both of which are just nearby.
