Foundling Museum

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The Foundling Museum is a museum in London, England, dedicated to the history of the Foundling Hospital, the UK's first children's charity and public art gallery. The museum explores the history of the hospital, which was founded in 1739 by the philanthropic sea captain Thomas Coram to care for babies at risk of abandonment. The Foundling Hospital was a pioneering institution that aimed to address the social issue of child abandonment in the 18th century.

History

The Foundling Hospital was established after a 17-year campaign by Thomas Coram to make provision for the "education and maintenance of exposed and deserted young children." The hospital was granted a royal charter by King George II in 1739. It was not only a charitable institution but also one of London's first public art galleries. The hospital received significant support from the leading artists of the day, including William Hogarth, who encouraged other artists to donate works. This helped to establish a link between charity and the arts in Britain.

The Museum

The Foundling Museum, located in a purpose-built building near the original site of the hospital, opened to the public in 2004. It houses a collection of artworks donated by the hospital's supporters, including Hogarth and the composer George Frideric Handel, who was a major benefactor. The museum's collection includes paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, and decorative arts, all telling the story of the Foundling Hospital and the children who lived there.

The museum also holds the Gerald Coke Handel Collection, one of the greatest collections of Handel memorabilia, which includes manuscripts, librettos, and documents related to the composer's life and work. Handel's connection to the hospital is commemorated with an annual performance of his Messiah, which he conducted himself for the benefit of the hospital's children.

Exhibitions and Programs

The Foundling Museum hosts a range of temporary exhibitions related to its core themes of social history, art, and music. It also offers an educational program that includes workshops, talks, and events designed to engage the public with the museum's collections and the history of the Foundling Hospital.

Significance

The Foundling Museum serves as a testament to the philanthropic spirit of the 18th century and the role of art in society. It highlights the importance of social care and the impact of individual philanthropy on public welfare. The museum not only preserves the history of the Foundling Hospital but also continues its legacy of supporting children and families.

Visit

The Foundling Museum is located in Brunswick Square, London. It is open to the public, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its collections and learn about the history of the Foundling Hospital and its significance in British social history.