Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek | Copenhagen

The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek is one of Copenhagen's premier museums, known for its extensive collections of art, antiquities, and sculptures. Established in 1888 by the brewer Carl Jacobsen, the museum houses a rich assortment of works spanning ancient civilizations, 19th-century art, and modern sculptures. Its collections and architecture make it a must-visit cultural destination in Copenhagen.

Overview

• Location: H.C. Andersens Boulevard, close to the Tivoli Gardens and Copenhagen's Central Station.
• Founded: 1888 by Carl Jacobsen, the founder of the Carlsberg Brewery, to house his private collection of art.
• Mission: The museum aims to share Jacobsen's personal collection while promoting cultural and artistic education, with a strong focus on classical antiquities and modern European art.

Key Collections

1. Ancient Art

• The Glyptotek’s collection of ancient art is one of the most significant in Denmark. It includes works from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the Near East.
• The museum's Greek and Roman sculptures are particularly renowned, with notable works like Greek statues and Roman busts. These pieces offer a glimpse into classical artistry, with a particular emphasis on the human form.
• Highlights include marble sculptures, ancient reliefs, and vases, many of which come from the Greek and Roman periods. The museum also features Egyptian antiquities, such as mummies, statues, and artifacts.

2. 19th Century European Art

• The 19th-century collection focuses on European art, particularly from France, Denmark, and other northern European countries. It contains works by famous artists from the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist movements.
• French paintings from the 19th century, including works by Edgar Degas, Édouard Manet, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, are key highlights. The collection also includes sculptures by artists like Rodin.
• The Danish art collection features works by artists from Denmark’s Golden Age, including Christen Købke and Wilhelm Marstrand, whose paintings are a testament to Denmark's 19th-century artistic heritage.

3. Modern Art and Sculpture

• The museum has a strong sculpture collection, including works by Auguste Rodin, Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux, and Henri Laurens.
• Rodin's The Thinker is one of the most notable works in the collection.
• There is also a collection of modern sculptures, including works from the early 20th century by artists such as Constantin Brâncuși and Henry Moore.

4. The Cycladic Collection

• One of the museum's unique features is its collection of Cycladic art, which consists of ancient Greek artifacts from the Aegean Islands. The Cycladic figurines are famous for their minimalist, abstract forms and are a key part of the museum’s antiquities collection.

5. Danish Golden Age Art

• The museum has a significant collection of Danish Golden Age paintings, capturing the cultural and artistic output of Denmark in the early 19th century. Works from artists such as Christen Købke, Johan Thomas Lundbye, and P.C. Skovgaard showcase the beauty of Denmark’s landscapes and urban life during this period.

Architecture

• The museum building itself is a work of art. Designed by the architect Vilhelm Dahlerup, the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek features neoclassical architecture and open spaces, with a central courtyard that houses a glass-roofed atrium. The atrium is a beautiful space, featuring tropical plants and sculptures, and is a central gathering area for visitors.
• The museum has been expanded over the years, with notable additions like the West Wing, which houses the modern art collections. The combination of classical architecture and modern design creates a harmonious atmosphere for both the exhibits and the visitors.

Special Exhibitions and Programs

• The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, often focusing on specific artists, movements, or periods in history. These exhibitions provide an in-depth look at particular themes, with many coming from collaborations with international museums and galleries.
• The museum also offers a variety of cultural programs, including lectures, workshops, and guided tours, making it an educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Visitor Information

• Opening Hours:
  • Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (check for any exceptions on public holidays).
  • Late evening openings may be available for special events or exhibitions.
• Admission Fees:
  • Adults: Approx. DKK 115.
  • Free Admission: Visitors under 18 and on certain days, such as Tuesdays after 5:00 PM (check the museum website for updated details).
  • Admission is usually free on New Year’s Eve, International Museum Day, and other special occasions.
• Café and Shop:
  • The museum has a café offering light refreshments and meals in the serene courtyard. It is a great spot to relax after exploring the exhibits.
  • The museum shop offers a range of art books, souvenirs, and reproductions of famous artworks from the collection.

Getting There

• By Metro: The Rådhuspladsen station (City Hall) is a short walk from the museum, served by Line M1 (red line).
• By Bus: Several bus lines, including Line 5A, stop near the Glyptotek.
• By Foot: The museum is within walking distance from Tivoli Gardens and Copenhagen Central Station, making it easily accessible for those exploring the city center.

Nearby Attractions

1. Tivoli Gardens: The famous amusement park and garden located just across the street from the Glyptotek, offering a mix of fun, culture, and history.
2. City Hall: Copenhagen’s iconic Rådhus (City Hall), just a short walk away, offers a panoramic view of the city from its tower.
3. Rosenborg Castle: A short distance from the Glyptotek, this Renaissance castle houses the Danish Crown Jewels and royal artifacts.
4. The National Museum of Denmark: Another major museum in Copenhagen, focusing on Danish history and culture, located nearby.

Fun Fact

The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek houses a world-renowned collection of sculptures by Auguste Rodin, including The Thinker and The Burghers of Calais. This is one of the largest collections of Rodin’s works outside France.

Tips for Visitors

1. Plan to spend several hours: With its extensive collections, the Glyptotek offers plenty to explore, so set aside time to fully enjoy the exhibits.
2. Check for special events or exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that may feature specific artists, themes, or periods. These are often worth seeing if they coincide with your visit.
3. Visit the café: Take a break in the museum's beautiful atrium café to relax and reflect on the art you've seen.
4. Use the audio guide: To enhance your experience, consider using the audio guide, available in several languages, to gain deeper insights into the collections.

The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek is an essential stop for art lovers and history enthusiasts visiting Copenhagen, offering a captivating mix of ancient artifacts and modern masterpieces in a beautiful setting. Whether you're a fan of classical art or contemporary sculpture, this museum provides a diverse and enriching experience.