Sammlung Rosengart is an art museum on Pilatusstrasse in central Lucerne, a short walk from the railway station. Its collection brings together works by Pablo Picasso and Paul Klee with paintings by artists including Cézanne, Renoir, Monet, Chagall and Kandinsky. Several floors let you move between Klee’s delicate work, Picasso’s later paintings and pieces by other modern artists. Photographs of Picasso by David Douglas Duncan add a personal view of the artist’s life. Detailed room information helps you follow the displays at your own pace.
A private collection in central Lucerne
Sammlung Rosengart presents the collection assembled by art dealer Siegfried Rosengart and his daughter, Angela Rosengart. Angela was a close friend of Picasso, and the museum’s holdings include works by him alongside art by Paul Klee and other major figures of modern European art.
The museum is housed in a former Swiss National Bank branch, a neoclassical building near Lucerne’s railway station. It has been open to the public since 2002. Its central location makes it easy to add to a day exploring the city.
Picasso, Klee and other modern artists
Picasso is a major focus, with works from different stages of his career. The collection includes paintings, drawings, prints, watercolours and sculptural works. Photographs by David Douglas Duncan document the final 17 years of Picasso’s life, adding images of the artist alongside his own work. The museum also displays photographs of Picasso at work.
Klee has a dedicated place in the collection, with his work shown on a separate floor from Picasso’s. The contrast gives you a chance to see two distinct approaches to modern art in one visit. Other artists represented include Cézanne, Renoir, Monet, Seurat, Chagall, Kandinsky, Miró, Matisse and Modigliani.
Planning your visit
The collection is spread across several floors, with information provided for the display rooms. An elevator is available. If you want a closer account of Picasso’s paintings, consider joining a guided tour. The museum may not have an audio guide available, so checking ahead or preparing some background reading can help you get more from the works.
There is plenty to see beyond the best-known Picasso displays. Visitors have spent from about an hour to more than three hours exploring the collection, so set aside time according to your interest in the artists. The museum recommends getting tickets in advance.
FAQ
Where is Sammlung Rosengart?
It is at Pilatusstrasse 10 in central Lucerne, a short walk from the railway station.
Which artists can I see at Sammlung Rosengart?
The collection includes Picasso and Paul Klee, as well as works by Cézanne, Renoir, Monet, Seurat, Chagall, Kandinsky, Miró, Matisse and Modigliani.
Does the museum have photographs of Picasso?
Yes. It displays photographs by David Douglas Duncan documenting the last 17 years of Picasso’s life, as well as photographs of him at work.
Is there an audio guide?
An audio guide may not be available on site. Check ahead or read about the artists before your visit.
