Museo Soumaya, Central Mexico and Gulf Coast, Mexico

5George S 5:00 PM Apr 19, 2022

A varied and interesting collection
This is a very unique personal collection of the Mexican businessman Carlos Slim which is housed in a very impressive building. It is a varied and eclectic assembly of art and collectibles of all sorts. As for the art, it includes Spanish and colonial paintings, religious art and antiques, some old masters, classical and modern Mexican paintings and modern European works including nice sculptures of Rodins. and some other impressionists. There are also some nice Guardis and a Ribera and a Zubaran. Probably, the most interesting section for me were the carved ivories and bone from China, India and Europe. The other part of this collection are the many and varied collectibles including scientific instruments, telephones, phonographs, watches and clocks, fashions, miniatures , religious reliquary , medals, coins and currency. I gather Mr Slim was a fulsome collector. Please note that this is a vast assemblage of “things” that interested him. This is not the Metropolitan, the Prado or the National Gallery — in other words, not all of the works are the best in their categories but nevertheless they are very interesting and worthy of exploration to suite one’s tastes. There is no admission charge to this museum. I would recommend that, upon entering, you take the elevator to the top floor (there are six) and walk downward from the Rodin et al works to the lobby. It is much easier on the feet. I have been here three times in the last six months and always spent at least 2+ hours. The cafe is currently closed due to Covid. I most highly recommend visiting during your stay in CDMX.

4M G 5:00 PM Feb 6, 2023

Extravagant Collection in Unique Building
This is a private museum located in a high end commercial district. One either loves or hates the outward building design – I really like it. The interior is another matter. The collection has been assembled by one of the richest men in the world and appears to reflect his and his family’s personal tastes. One ascends the interior along a series of sweeping ramps though the different levels, each of which is devoted to a particular theme. I enjoyed in particular the collection of old European masters and colonial Mexican art, but my overall impression of the museum was of just a huge number of displayed pieces and artifacts that tended to detract from the few standout items on display. The very top level is packed with sculptures, but I did note that it was rather warm up there (hot air rising and all), so I didn’t linger too long. Entry to the museum was free. There was a standard security check to enter. I spent about two hours walking through the levels, but ideally the museum should be visited multiple times over different days. There were no issues with taking photographs. It was rather crowded, but not unbearably so. As stated above, it got warmer as one ascended the museum. The ground level has a dining area, but I did not eat there. Many great works of art are hidden in private collections that will never see the light of day. I suppose I can appreciate that this extremely wealthy individual has granted us the opportunity to view his vast collection.