Property of a Gentleman
On 17 February 1888, the Auckland Art Gallery officially opened with a display of European and local paintings gifted by soldier, explorer, collector and twice governor of New Zealand, Sir George Grey.
Almost a century and a quarter later, continue to benefit from Grey's generosity by exploring this selection of paintings from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries.
Focusing on the highlights of Grey's collection, Property of a Gentleman turns the spotlight on the purchases he made at one sale at Christies in 1869. It features the key painting he set out to buy - Caspar Netscher's Girl Arranging Flowers, a graceful, elegant portrait in the French style fashionable in the 1600s and a family heirloom beloved by Grey's mother.
Until February 2012
Level 1
Free entry
Caspar Netscher, Girl Arranging Flowers, 1683
oil on canvas, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o T?maki, Gift of Sir George Grey, 1883
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
Corner Kitchener and Wellesley Streets
Auckland Central
Member Profile
Auckland Art GalleryAuckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
History, heritage and culture are brought to life at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. Founded in 1888, it remains New Zealand’s largest visual arts experience, with a collection numbering over 15,000 works. The main gallery building is now open after a comprehensive heritage restoration and expansion.
Explore a treasure trove of historic, modern and contemporary New Zealand art, as well as work by Māori and Pacific Island artists. International painting, sculpture and print collections range from 1376 to the present day.
The Gallery offers a lively calendar of talks, performances, film screenings and children's activities. Visit our website to see what’s on.
Choose from a range of free guided tours - organised group tours available by arrangement.
• Open daily 10am – 5pm (except Christmas Day)
• In the heart of Auckland City
• Wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs available free of charge
• Café and espresso bar
• Gallery shop offers quality souvenirs, books and unique art-inspired gifts
