Marianne Rosenberg, an art dealer with a rich family history in the art world, has embarked on a journey to revive her family's legacy and restore missing artworks. Her story is a fascinating blend of personal and professional, as she navigates the complexities of the art market while honoring her family's contributions. With a unique perspective, she offers a window into the past, shedding light on the lives of renowned artists and the inner workings of the art world during the 20th century.
Rosenberg's family history is deeply intertwined with the art world, dating back to her great-grandfather, Alexandre Rosenberg, a prominent figure in Paris in the late 19th century. He was known for acquiring works by artists like Paul Cézanne and Vincent van Gogh, anticipating the shift in taste that would define Modern art history. His sons, particularly Paul Rosenberg, further solidified the family's reputation, becoming one of the most important dealers in the industry and representing artists like Henri Matisse, Fernand Léger, and Pablo Picasso.
However, the Rosenberg family's trajectory took a dramatic turn during World War II. They were forced to flee Nazi-occupied France in 1940, resulting in the loss of valuable possessions, including artwork and archival materials. Paul Rosenberg re-established his gallery in New York, and later, his son Alexandre P. Rosenberg joined him, continuing the family's legacy until Paul's death in 1959. Alexandre, Marianne's father, built his own connections with artists, including Giacomo Manzù, until his death in 1987.
Marianne's journey into the art world began with a fascination for art, attending auctions and events with her mother and building her own collection. However, she initially pursued a career in international aviation finance law. It wasn't until 2015 that she decided to follow her passion and open her own gallery, Rosenberg & Co., continuing her family's focus on Impressionist and Modern art while also working with contemporary artists.
One of Marianne's most significant endeavors is the recovery of missing artworks, a mission inspired by her grandfather and father's efforts. Paul Rosenberg recovered around 300 works before his death, and Alexandre, a lieutenant in the Free French Forces, played a crucial role in stopping a train filled with looted artwork. Marianne estimates that over 50 works are still missing, and she has been actively working towards their restitution.
The Paul Rosenberg Archives at the Museum of Modern Art hold a treasure trove of records kept by her grandfather, offering valuable insights into the art world's inner workings and the lives of the artists Paul represented. As Marianne rebuilds her family's material legacy, she also reflects on the intangible, aiming to revive the memory and influence of her father.
To achieve this, Marianne recently curated an exhibition, 'Giacomo Manzù: The Artist and his Dealer,' showcasing sculptures, works on paper, and archival letters that explore the decades-long relationship between Manzù and Alexandre. The exhibition is a testament to their enduring connection and the trust they shared, as revealed through the archival material.
The show features key works like 'Standing Cardinal' (1972) and 'Cestino' (1984), showcasing Manzù's ability to convey authority and introspection in his depictions of cardinals and his mastery of fruit baskets. The exhibition not only celebrates Manzù's artistic genius but also highlights the importance of the relationship between artists and their dealers, a dynamic that Marianne deeply understands and appreciates.
Marianne's journey is a testament to the power of family legacy and the importance of preserving and restoring lost history. Her dedication to the art world, combined with her personal connection to the past, makes her a unique and insightful commentator on the art market and its rich history.
