Behold the Timken Museum of Art a jewel box of fine art nestled in Balboa Park. It’s more than just a museum. It’s a testament to the enduring power of art and philanthropy.
The story begins in 1951. Sisters Amy and Anne Putnam formed the Putnam Foundation. They wanted to share their impressive art collection. Their nieces and heirs of Henry W Putnam helped them. The sisters had lived in San Diego since the early 20th century. They had already donated to the San Diego Museum of Art. Initially the foundation loaned works to other museums across the United States.
The museum itself opened in 1965. The Putnam Collection formed its core. Walter Ames the first director guided its early years. The building stands where the Home Economy Building once stood. This building was part of the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. It was later known as the Pan-Pacific Building. The American Legion Building also occupied this site. The old building was demolished in 1963. The Timken family funded the new museum. Frank L Hope and Associates designed the elegant marble and bronze structure. It houses five stunning galleries.
Upon opening John Walker of the National Gallery of Art praised the Timken. He noted its remarkable collection. Some of the works had been on loan to his own institution. Walker commented that finding paintings of true excellence was exceptionally difficult. He stated that money wasn’t the issue. Acquiring such masterpieces was the real challenge. He further stated that he couldn’t replace what San Diego had gained. Paintings like these were virtually unobtainable.
The Timken Museum boasts European old master paintings. Sculptures and tapestries are displayed under natural light. American paintings and Russian icons add to the diversity. The collection expanded significantly since its beginning. It now includes works by Copley Johnson West Cole Bierstadt Veronese Guercino and Savoldo among others. Masterpieces by Pieter Brueghel the Elder Peter Paul Rubens Anthony van Dyck and Frans Hals are also part of the collection. It is home to the only Rembrandt in San Diego. In 2015 the museum acquired a Zurbarán portrait of Saint Francis in meditation. This was in honor of the museum’s 50th anniversary.
Explore the Timken Museum. Discover masterpieces spanning centuries and cultures. It’s a small museum but it holds immense beauty. It’s a place where history art and philanthropy converge. Enjoy your visit to this unique San Diego treasure.