For our June meeting, 16 of us assembled at the Bowes Museum for a close look at the newly displayed Founders’ Galleries on the first floor
Our guide to the three galleries was volunteer Sue Fielder, who gave us a concise introduction to the lives and work of John and Josephine Bowes, as now presented. Gallery 1 traces the story of the Bowes family, from Norman times leading up to the lives of the two founders. The broad outlines of their biographies were probably familiar to most of us, but Sue provided interesting details about their collecting priorities. John bought pictures initially for his home at Streatlam Castle, but under Joséphine’s influence, the fledgling museum became largely a showpiece for French history and art.
Gallery 2 concentrates on the Teesdale background to the foundation and building of the museum. The money came form John’s extensive mining and other businesses in the North-East, while the inspiration for the building was, again, French. Even the parquet flooring follows a French herringbone pattern, illustrating how the architect, Jules Pelluchet, not only designed the building but also its interiors and fittings.
Gallery 3 is devoted to Joséphine’s patronage of the arts and her own development as an artist. While living in France, she was able to employ the best instructors, and her natural talent is evidenced by the works displayed here. She was no amateur dabbler, and her ability was recognised by her success in having several paintings accepted for the prestigious annual Salon exhibitions in Paris.
We were impressed by the openness and flexibility of the new displays, and above all by the daylight which is allowed to flood in, now that the windows have been treated with a UV filter. The paintings well illustrate the narrative of the story, with a welcome section of Teesdale landscapes, many brought out of store; while the objects reflect the founders’ collecting policies, giving a taste of the sheer range to be found throughout the museum.
Our thanks for a most enjoyable visit go to Sue, to Howard Coutts, who was on hand to give to give us the benefit of his expertise, and to Harriet Rosie and other members of staff and volunteers for their warm welcome.
Back at Enterprise House on Wednesday 1 July, we will explore the life and work of that mysterious Dutch master, Johannes Vermeer.
Report by Tony Seward