The Sainsbury Collection is primarily shown in a gallery known as the Living Area, where modern European art is interspersed with works from across the globe, grouped by geographical region. In 1978 the presentation of ancient world art alongside modern masters was greeted as a revelation � today it continues to provide juxtapositions across time and culture that can inspire and surprise.
Robert Sainsbury bought his first sculpture, Jacob Epstein�s Baby Asleep, in 1931 or 1932. Epstein was one of many artists in the early 20th century who was passionate about the art of other cultures. Robert and Lisa Sainsbury were to share this passion - their collection is distinguished by friendships with artists, such as Henry Moore and Alberto Giacometti, and their interest in the world art from which those artists drew inspiration.
Robert and Lisa Sainsbury�s purchases were guided by an instinctive response to sculptural form � particularly that of the human figure. They also shared an interest in contemporary painting which is evidenced by works in the Collection by Chaime Soutine, Francis Bacon and Antonio Saura. Lisa Sainsbury developed a passion for studio ceramics, amassing a considerable collection of modern pots which contains bodies of work by Hans Coper, Lucie Rie and Rupert Spira. This collection is now displayed alongside the Sainsbury Collection at the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts.
You can find out more about different aspects of the Robert and Lisa Sainsbury Collection by clicking on one of the links below.
 Modern Collection |
 Modern Pots |
 Asia |
 Japan |
 China |
 India |
 Africa |
 Egypt |
 European Antiquities |
 North America |
 Pacific |
 Pre-Columbia |
