Collections
The origins of the collection can be traced to 1732, when the third Earl of Burlington gave William & Mary a portrait of the physicist Robert Boyle. Since that time, the collection has grown to over six thousand works of art encompassing a diverse group of objects and styles and almost every material and medium.
Of particular note are Colonial American and English seventeenth and eighteenth century portraits; a survey collection of original prints and drawings from the fifteenth through the twenty-first centuries representing both American and European artists, as well as a selection of Japanese prints, a collection of German Expressionist works by Hans Grohs, and the Jean Outland Chrysler collection of American modern works interpreted in oils, drawings, watercolors, and sculpture.
The permanent collection, which continues to grow through gifts and purchases, stands as a major artistic resource for The William & Mary and the region.
We are excitedly in the process of digitizing our collection and will be updating this area with highlights from the collection as we develop our searchable database.
The Herman Graphic Arts Study Room
The drawing and print collection is central to the function of the Museum as a laboratory for the study of art. The collection, consisting of over 4,000 drawings and prints, was acquired through purchases and generous donations from Frederick and Lucy Herman, Ralph Wark, Patrick Hayes, Frauken Grohs Collinson, Ralph and Doris Lamberson and others. Included in these collections is one of the most comprehensive resources on American printmaker, Julius John Lankes.
Center for the Study of German Expressionism
Among the expansive print collection, the Museum has a substantial holding of works by German Expressionist Hans Grohs. As a repository for Groh’s prints, watercolors and paintings, with additional German Expressionist artists, the Museum has an initiative for studying German Expressionism. Students and faculty have a first-hand opportunity to research a multitude of prints, paintings and drawings by notable artists of the movement.
More Information
Where can I get more information on a specific work of art?
You can get information about works in the collection or on view by making a request through email at museum@wm.edu.
How can I view an object in the collection that is not currently on display?
We try to accommodate any request to view an object in our collection, but this is dependent on the condition of the object and the nature of the request. Works are not permitted to leave the Museum. You can make a request through email at museum@wm.edu. If you are a student, faculty member, or staff member on campus requesting for a class please contact museum@wm.edu or 757.221.2705.
Can I get images of works in the collection?
Rights and Reproductions are administered through the Office of the Registrar. The fee for images varies depending on size and medium of the requested product, and the use. You must submit a request through email or written letter. This can be submitted through email, fax, mail, or in person. For more information please contact Laura Fogarty at lfogarty@wm.edu or 757.221.2705.
What exhibitions or works in the collection are slated to show in the future?
Please visit our upcoming exhibitions page to learn more about what will be on view in the future.
Copyright Policy
Artworks and images viewed on this site may be protected by copyright which is noted whenever possible. The Museum does not warrant that reproduction of the artwork will not infringe on the rights of third parties. It is the responsibility of the user to determine and satisfy copyright or other use restrictions prior to copying, transmitting, or making other use of protected works beyond that allowed by “fair use” as such term is understood under the United States Copyright Act. View the full Muscarelle Museum of Art Copyright Policy here.
