Albert C. Barnes
American physician, chemist, businessman, art collector, writer, and educator
| Name | Albert C. Barnes |
| Birth name | |
| Birth date | January 2, 1872 |
| Birth place | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States |
| Death date | July 24, 1951 (aged 79) |
| Death place | Chester County, Pennsylvania, United States |
| Alma mater | |
| Occupation | Physician, chemist, businessman, art collector, writer, educator |
| Years active | |
| Organization | |
| Known for | Barnes Foundation |
| Notable works | |
| Spouse(s) | |
| Website | |
Albert Coombs Barnes (January 2, 1872 – July 24, 1951) was an American physician, chemist, businessman, art collector, writer, and educator. He is best known for establishing the Barnes Foundation, an educational art and horticultural institution in Merion, Pennsylvania.
Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]
Albert C. Barnes was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to a working-class family. He attended Central High School and later earned a medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania. Barnes also studied chemistry in Germany, where he developed a formula for an antiseptic silver compound called Argyrol.
Career[edit | edit source]
Medical and Business Career[edit | edit source]
Barnes co-founded the pharmaceutical company A.C. Barnes Company with his partner, Herman Hille. The company manufactured and sold Argyrol, which became widely used as an antiseptic. The success of Argyrol made Barnes a wealthy man, allowing him to pursue his interests in art and education.
Art Collection[edit | edit source]
Barnes began collecting art in the early 20th century, focusing on works by Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Modernist artists. His collection includes masterpieces by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne, Henri Matisse, and Pablo Picasso. Barnes's approach to art was educational; he believed in the importance of understanding the context and techniques of the artworks.
Barnes Foundation[edit | edit source]
In 1922, Barnes established the Barnes Foundation in Merion, Pennsylvania. The foundation was created as an educational institution dedicated to promoting the appreciation of fine art and horticulture. The Barnes Foundation's collection is renowned for its quality and includes over 2,500 objects, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
Personal Life[edit | edit source]
Barnes married Laura Leggett in 1901. The couple had no children. Barnes was known for his strong opinions and often clashed with the art establishment. He was a critic of traditional art education and believed in a more hands-on, experiential approach.
Death and Legacy[edit | edit source]
Albert C. Barnes died in a car accident on July 24, 1951, in Chester County, Pennsylvania. His legacy lives on through the Barnes Foundation, which continues to educate and inspire new generations of art lovers.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
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