Wentzingerhaus Freiburg, Late Baroque museum in Münsterplatz, Freiburg, Germany.
Wentzingerhaus, actually Haus "Zum Schönen Eck", is a three-storey late Baroque house built after 1761 by Johann Christian Wentzinger. Its facade has a columned portal with a balcony whose grille bears a small bust self-portrait of Wentzinger; full-round character heads serve as keystones. Inside, a stone staircase curves in a semicircle through a two-storey stair hall with a ceiling painting.
Johann Christian Wentzinger constructed this residence in 1761 as both his home and artist studio during a period of economic growth for Freiburg's wealthy merchants and patrons. The building's design reflects the prosperity and artistic interests of the late 18th century.
The building reflects the refined taste of wealthy citizens during the late 18th century and their preference for ornamental design. Walking through its rooms shows how the upper classes in Freiburg arranged their homes and displayed their status.
The Wentzingerhaus stands on Münsterplatz, a short walk from Freiburg's old town centre. The building now houses the city's cultural office, and the museum that occupied it closed at the end of 2024, with exhibits moving to the Augustinermuseum in 2025/26; check current access before visiting. The inner courtyard shelters the four sandstone Seasons sculptures.
A smiling self-portrait bust of Johann Christian Wentzinger watches from a balcony of the house as visitors enter below. This sculpture represents an unusual choice for an artist to immortalize his own presence within his residence.
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