Joseph F. McCrindle was a gifted art collector with a particular fondness for drawings. He began collecting seriously in the 1960s, forming one of the greatest private collections of drawings in America. Traveling frequently to London and Italy in search of great drawings, he amassed a staggering 2,500 works before his death. It was remarkable not only for its size, but also its breadth and quality, guided by an exceptionally discerning eye.
McCrindle’s passion for drawings was matched by a generous spirit. Upon his death, his collection was divided up among 30 American institutions, with the MIA acquiring 98 works. Celebrating this extraordinary gift to the museum, this exhibition features selections from this rich and very personal collection. McCrindle’s generous legacy continues to enrich our institution. Four of the studies were recently conserved with a generous award from the Joseph F. McCrindle Foundation.