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In 2026, the Alte Nationalgalerie will honour Paul Cassirer (1871–1926), one of the most important art dealers of his time. 

Through his gallery’s exceptionally dense and continuous exhibition programme, the Berlin-based galerist Paul Cassirer played a decisive role in spreading French Impressionism in Germany. Thanks to his efforts, artists such as Edgar Degas, Paul Cézanne, Édouard Manet, Claude Monet, Auguste Renoir and Vincent van Gogh gained wider recognition in the German-speaking world. By presenting their works, Cassirer left a lasting imprint on Germany’s cultural landscape and ignited passionate public debates. Numerous key works entered major German collections and museums through his mediation, including the holdings of the Nationalgalerie.

Cassirer’s commitment was not confined to promoting French art. He was equally dedicated to supporting German Impressionism and the Berlin Secession, represented by artists such as Max Liebermann, Lovis Corinth, and Max Slevogt. At the same time, he championed significant pioneers of Classical Modernism like Edvard Munch and August Gaul, while also including the young avant-garde—such as Ernst Barlach, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, and Paula Modersohn-Becker—in the programme of his gallery.

The exhibition Cassirer and the Breakthrough of Impressionism presents more than 100 outstanding works of Impressionism and Classical Modernism, showcasing Paul Cassirer’s remarkable commitment to the arts.

Supporting Programme

Das Universum Cassirer: Event program accompanying the special exhibition, featuring free lectures and panel discussions on themes and figures from the world of Paul Cassirer.

Publication

A richly illustrated publication will accompany the exhibition.

Curatorial Team

The exhibition is curated by Josephine Klinger.

Co-curator and project manager: Franziska Lietzmann.

A special exhibition of the Alte Nationalgalerie, Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, made possible by the FREUNDE der Nationalgalerie. Supported by the Kuratorium Preußischer Kulturbesitz.