Fürstenberg Collection, Private museum and art collection in Donaueschingen, Germany
The Fürstenberg Collection is a private museum in Donaueschingen that occupies three floors and about 2500 square meters (26,900 square feet) with a diverse range of objects. The spaces contain minerals, fossils, natural history specimens, and contemporary art displays arranged within a building that balances historical character with modern exhibition design.
The collection was founded in 1868 by Prince Karl Egon III and housed in a former barn building that still contains original furnishings from that era. This early establishment shows how the princely family began building what became a multi-faceted gathering of different collections.
The contemporary art on the second floor reflects the tastes of the princely family, particularly through selections made by Hereditary Princess Jeannette and Prince Christian zu Fürstenberg. This section shows how the collection grew beyond natural history to embrace international modern artists.
The museum's layout across three floors makes it easy to navigate at your own pace without feeling rushed, and you can spend as little or as much time as you wish. Taking a leisurely approach helps you appreciate both the natural specimens and the art without pressure.
Among the holdings are personal items belonging to Napoleon Bonaparte, including a portable urinal and silver table service, which offer rare glimpses into the everyday aspects of a major historical figure. These objects stand out because they reveal how private collectors preserved intimate details of important historical moments.
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