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Knauf-Museum Iphofen

Knauf-Museum Iphofen Iphofen

Knauf-Museum Iphofen

Nestled in the charming Franconian town of Iphofen, the Knauf-Museum Iphofen stands as a unique testament to the grandeur of ancient civilizations. This private museum, an initiative of the Knauf Gips KG, offers a captivating journey through the art and culture of ancient times, all housed within a splendid baroque building at the heart of the town. With its vast collection of plaster casts from major cultural epochs, the museum provides an unparalleled glimpse into the artistic achievements of humanity's past.

The Origins of the Knauf-Museum

The museum's story begins with the vision of Alfons N. Knauf, a local gypsum manufacturer with a profound interest in the historical and artistic significance of gypsum. Inspired by his friend, Egyptian archaeologist Abu Bakr, Knauf envisioned a museum that would provide a comparative overview of the great ancient cultures. Together with his brother Karl Knauf, this vision was brought to life during an inspiring trip to Egypt, where they decided to recreate the masterpieces of each cultural era through authentic gypsum casts.

The collection process began in the 1970s, with the Knauf brothers commissioning casts of iconic artifacts from major museums around the world. Notable pieces include the boundary stela of Sesostris III from the Egyptian Museum in Berlin, the Code of Hammurabi from the Louvre, and the Rosetta Stone from the British Museum. The museum also features replicas of temple walls and stelae, meticulously copied on-site, such as those from the Khmer temple complex of Angkor Wat.

The Museum's Architectural Splendor

The Knauf-Museum is housed in a historic baroque building, originally constructed in 1693. This stately sandstone structure, with its distinctive hipped roof and baroque portal, is a masterpiece of late Renaissance architecture. The building's history is as rich as the artifacts it now contains, having served various roles over the centuries, from a tavern to a justice office.

In 2010, a modern extension was added to the museum, designed by the architectural firm Böhm. This minimalist addition seamlessly integrates with the historical ensemble while maintaining its own distinct identity. The extension features a cubical form that echoes the antiquity of the exhibits inside, and its sandstone façade pays homage to the original building.

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Exploring the Permanent Collection

Spanning 900 square meters, the permanent exhibition of the Knauf-Museum offers a comprehensive overview of ancient art from four continents and five millennia. Visitors can explore over 250 expertly crafted plaster casts, displayed in 20 rooms of the historic building. Each piece is presented in a way that recreates its original context, allowing visitors to experience the cultural environment of the artifact.

Highlights of the collection include the Narmer Palette from the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the Rosetta Stone, and the Code of Hammurabi. The Mesopotamian section features the impressive tribute bearer relief from Persepolis, while the Greek section dazzles with parts of the Parthenon frieze and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.

Special Exhibitions and Cultural Impact

Since 1987, the Knauf-Museum has hosted a series of successful special exhibitions, delving deeper into topics from the permanent collection or exploring new themes altogether. These exhibitions have reinforced the museum's role as a cultural catalyst, drawing visitors from across the region and beyond.

Under the leadership of Markus Mergenthaler since 2000, the museum has continued to expand its influence and reach. The 2010 extension has provided additional space for these special exhibitions, further enhancing the museum's ability to showcase the diversity and richness of world art.

A Visit to Remember

The Knauf-Museum Iphofen is not just a museum; it's a portal to the past, offering an immersive experience that connects visitors with the artistic achievements of ancient civilizations. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, the museum promises a journey through time that is both educational and inspiring.

As you wander through its halls, you'll find yourself transported to distant lands and eras, each artifact telling a story of human creativity and innovation. The Knauf-Museum Iphofen is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the wonders of the ancient world, right in the heart of Franconia.

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