burrell collection

The Burrell Collection is housed in a modern, purpose built museum set in Pollock Country Park. From the outside it appears modest and unassuming. Inside is a treasure trove of decorative arts, crafts, and paintings, from all corners of the world. The overall impressions in the museum is of a few outstanding items very well displayed, so it is never overwhelming. 

Burrell Collection

The priceless collection of varied pieces of art from around the world was gifted to Glasgow in 1944 by Sir William Burrell and his wife, Constance. Burrell has collected rare and precious works of art since his teens. The buildings huge feature walls of glass seem to pull the greenery inside and effectively showcase the work. Hundreds of panels from the stained glass collection are incorporated into the windows, where the natural daylight reveals their jewel-like colours. 

Stained glass

The collection featured Medieval tapestries, Oriental art, Rembrandt self-portrait, Degas pictures, and Manet sketches. Some of my favourites included the arms and armour, the needlework room, and the Mezzanine floor, specifically the work of Degas. Burrell collected many paintings by the great French artist of the 19th century. He is best known for his images of ballet dancers, in paint and in bronze, which were some of my favourites. 

Degas: The Rehearsal

Manet: Women Drinking Beer

After initially arriving 45 minutes too early to enter the Burrell Collection (but getting to see this) the day turned out quite nicely. The collection provided an interesting insight to a man who was fascinated by art and the world around him. Definitely a must see.

Entrance to Burrell Collection

My Mom and I enjoying the surrounding area

Plus we got to take in parts of the lovely Pollock Country Park!