Spectacular works from art masters including Rembrandt, Rubens and Titian are going on show at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) in the latest exhibition Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great.
Founded by Catherine the Great in 1764, the Hermitage is among the largest and oldest museums in the world and is regarded as having one of the world’s biggest and finest collections of paintings.
The works featured in the exhibition were personally collected by Catherine the Great during her 34-year reign – a period renowned as a Golden Age for the Russian empire.
The NGV has recreated the sweeping halls and rich furnishings of the acclaimed museum, transporting visitors into the world of the Hermitage.
Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great joins David Bowie Is, hosted at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, as another major event and tourist drawcard for Victoria.
The exhibition is open daily at NGV International on St Kilda Rd until 8 November. For information on the exhibition, and associated programs for visitors of all ages, go to
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“Our NGV has brought some of the world’s greatest treasures to Melbourne, the world’s most liveable city. This exhibition shows why Victoria is the best place to live and visit in Australia.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley
“Masterpieces from the Hermitage brings together two of the world’s most acclaimed cultural institutions – the Hermitage and our NGV. It’s a major win for Victoria.”
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Victorians to experience the work of the great European masters and is sure to heat things up this winter season.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren
“The Melbourne Winter Masterpieces series demonstrates to the world that Melbourne is Australia’s leading centre for major events.”
“Over 4.7 million people have attended a Masterpieces exhibition. It’s provided a $380 million boost to our state, which represents countless jobs and purchases.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020