Painting Ireland

Topographical views from Glin Castle.

Over the last three decades the eminent art historian Desmond FitzGerald, Knight of Glin, has assembled a collection of views of Ireland ranging in date from the mid-eighteenth century to today. While there is a particular focus on views of the great houses of Ireland , there are also images of castles, townscapes, gardens and garden buildings, archaeological remains and interiors.

This Irish Architectural Archive exhibition contains a selection of items representing the provinces of Connaught, Leinster and Ulster, some by major masters, others by unknown amateurs. Paintings and drawings are included, Their strength lies in what they reveal about the buildings or views depicted, many of which have been destroyed or irrevocably altered. (Material relating to Munster will be exhibited in the Hunt Museum, Limerick, in February.)

The exhibition coincides with the publication of Painting Ireland the most in depth catalogue yet attempted of an Irish private collection, and continues the involvement of Churchill House Press in publishing little-known aspects of Ireland’s art and architectural heritage.

Speaking at the opening of the exhibition, Michael Webb, Chairman of the Irish Architectural Archive, acknowledged the support provided for its exhibitions programme by Michael McNamara & Co., Pierse Contracting Ltd and John Sisk and Son Ltd. and thanked the Knight of Glin for his long association with the Archive.