Clinton’s Museum of Russian Icons Receives Major Donation

The Museum of Russian Icons in Clinton, MA has recently shared the great news with all American connoisseurs of Russian art. According to the Museum website, not so long ago it received a major donation from Boston-based collectors Joan and Edward Simpson, which has become the most valuable and largest single gift since the Museum opening in 2006.

The Museum of Russian Icons

Founded by Gordon B. Lankton, the Clinton’s Museum of Russian Icons is a non-profit art museum that houses the largest outside of Russia collection of antique Russian icons, which is additionally one of the most significant in the world. Featuring more than 1,000 exhibits dating from the mid-15^th century to the present day, it offers a truly unique experience rich with religious art and history. Plus, the Museum of Russian Icons is also a recognized center for the popularization and study of Russian culture.

The Edward and Joan Simpson Collection

Joan and Edward Simpson have long been known as inveterate collectors of art. However, among their many acquisitions, including various works by American painters, antique Russian icons from the 18^th – 19^th centuries stand out as particularly important and noteworthy. The couple started this collection in the early 1990s, and now it is donated to the Clinton’s Museum of Russian Icons. Featuring 91 icons and 28 related Orthodox artifacts, such as an enameled jeweled wedding crown and bronze crosses, it is undoubtedly a significant addition to the Museum’s own collection. To celebrate this important event, the Museum of Russian Icons has created a special exhibition titled the Edward and Joan Simpson Collection. Offering 24 exhibits from the eponymous collection, it is already on view in the Auditorium Gallery and will run until June 17, 2018.

Other Exhibitions

It is also worth noting two more current exhibitions organized by the Clinton’s Museum of Russian Icons. These include:

• Twelve Fairy Tale Plates exhibition showcasing a series of decorative plates crafted by Russian artists from Fedoskino, Kholui, and Palekh. It is on view until March 18, 2018.
• Migration and Memory: Jewish Artists of the Russian and Soviet Empires exhibition featuring artworks by Jewish artists who were born or worked in the Russian and Soviet Empires in the 20^th century. It will run until January 28, 2018.

Once you are in Clinton, MA, do not miss an opportunity to visit the renowned Museum of Russian Icons and its current exhibitions. A delightful, unique experience is guaranteed!