Berlin's Alte Nationalgalerie Marks 150th Anniversary with Controversial Painting Display
The Alte Nationalgalerie in Berlin celebrated the 150th anniversary of its building with a special program, including a cabinet exhibition featuring a once-scandalous painting. The exhibition highlights 'Mors Imperator' by Hermione von Preuschen, a work rejected in 1887 for allegedly insulting Kaiser Wilhelm I. The gallery now publicly displays this long-lost piece, reintroducing the artist to modern audiences. The event is part of broader festivities for the 200th anniversary of Berlin's Museum Island, with each year focusing on a different museum; 2025 spotlighted the Alte Museum. A symbolic handover occurred between museum directors to mark the occasion.
Key facts
- The Alte Nationalgalerie commemorated its building's 150th anniversary with free tours and a cabinet exhibition.
- The exhibition centers on 'Mors Imperator,' a painting by Hermione von Preuschen that caused a scandal in 1887 for perceived insult to Kaiser Wilhelm I.
- The painting was initially rejected by the Royal Academy of Arts but gained public success when displayed independently by the artist.
- This anniversary is part of a five-year celebration for the 200th anniversary of Berlin's Museum Island, with different museums highlighted annually.
- The gallery is showcasing the painting publicly for the first time since it was believed lost, reintroducing von Preuschen to contemporary viewers.
Entities
Artists
- Hermione von Preuschen
Institutions
- Alte Nationalgalerie
- Alte Museum
- Royal Academy of Arts
Locations
- Berlin
- Germany