Introduction to the Wildenstein Institute

The Fondation Wildenstein was established in 1970 in memory of Georges Wildenstein. In 1990, it became the Wildenstein Institute, a research center endowed with the mission of promoting knowledge in and of French Art.

Originally set up as a non-profit-making association under French law (Loi du 1er juillet 1901), the Wildenstein Institute entrusted its management to one limited liability company, Wildenstein Institute Publications SARL, whom is in charge of activities preparatory to publication of catalogues raisonnés and critical catalogues and administers the collection of documents constituting the library.

The three integral parts of the activities of the Wildenstein Institute are therefore research in art history, publishing, and patronage of the arts. Insofar as its philanthropic activities are concerned, the Wildenstein Institute divides its activities between support for museums through the restoration of art works and the renovation of museographic spaces, the organization of exhibitions, and scholarly and financial aid to artists, researchers, and art historians.