The Phillips Collection

Overview

The Phillips Collection is America's first museum of modern art, founded in 1921 by Duncan Phillips in his family's Georgian Revival mansion in Dupont Circle. The intimate setting offers a residential-scale experience unlike any other art museum in D.C.

Highlights

• Renoir's Luncheon of the Boating Party: The crown jewel of the permanent collection.
• Rothko Room: A dedicated gallery with four Mark Rothko paintings in a contemplative setting.
• Music Series: Free Sunday concerts in the gallery held since 1941.

History

Duncan Phillips opened two rooms of his family home to the public in 1921, eleven years before the Museum of Modern Art in New York. The collection has grown to over 6,000 works including pieces by Bonnard, Klee, O'Keeffe, and Diebenkorn.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Visit on the first Thursday of the month for Phillips After 5, featuring live music and a cash bar.
• Tip 2: The permanent collection is free on weekdays; special exhibitions require a ticket.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.