Nelson-Akins Museum of Art

Uncirculated
Published by the Chamber of Commerce of Kansas City
Printed by "Colourpicture" Publications

Postcard Caption

William Rockhill Nelson Art Gallery and Atkins Museum of Fine Arts, located in one of Kansas City's finest residential areas, is considered outstanding among the most modern galleries in the world. With an endowment of  $11,000,000 the gallery owns many famous art pieces, features traveling collections, and, because of the war, is in possession of valuable collections sent here for the duration. More than 5,000 objects are on display in small, scientifically lighted and air-conditioned galleries, decorated according to viewing periods.

The original neo-classical building was completed in 1933. The new Bloch building was erected in 2007. Today, more than 30,000 pieces of art belong to the collection.

During World War II, over 150 pieces were sent to Nelson-Atkins for safe-keeping. Museums on the East Coast as well as galleries in Europe believe priceless pieces of art would be safer in the middle of the United States than in occupied France or near Washington, D.C. The Luncheon of the Boating Party by Pierre Auguste Renoir (French, 1841–1919) from the Phillips Collection, one of the largest canvases sent to Nelson-Atkins, generated much publicity and attendance.

Further Reading

• "The Monuments Men: Guarding Our Treasures," Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
• "Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art," Google Cultural Institute