The iconic bronze lions guarding the entrance to the The Art Institute of Chicago are symbols of strength and protection, fitting for a world-class institution housing hundreds of thousands of precious artifacts
The two lions, created by sculptor Edward Kemeys, were a gift from Mrs. Henry Field and were officially unveiled in May 1894. They have developed a lovely green patina over the years.
The lions are famous for participating in city celebrations. They are frequently outfitted in oversized wreaths during the holiday season and large sports helmets or jerseys when Chicago teams (like the Bears, Cubs, or White Sox) make the playoffs.
The Art Institute of Chicago houses 33 paintings and 13 drawings by Claude Monet. This combined total of 46 works constitutes the largest collection of the artist’s work outside of Paris.
Water Lily Pond (1917–1919) is one of a group of 19 smaller canvases Monet painted during his monumental water lily project during World War I.
Irises (1914–1917)
Monet's massive "Irises painting is approximately 6.5 feet square. It depicts the lush plantings that surrounded his water lily pond at Giverny. This painting suffered shrapnel damage from shells during World War II. it was acquired by the Art Institute in 1956.
Claude Monet, Sandvika, Norway (1895)
This painting is part of a series Monet created during a two-month trip to Norway.
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the world. Its massive collection spans centuries and cultures and is a fantastic place to spend a cold winter day when 'the weather outside is frightful'.
