Gentil House
A Sanctuary for Art
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© 2025
A House for Art: The Gentil House
The Gentil House in Aschaffenburg is a fascinating piece of contemporary history and a testament to absolute passion. Built between 1923 and 1924 by local industrialist and passionate collector Anton Gentil, the building served a very specific purpose: it was not intended to be a mere residence, but a tailor-made setting for Gentil's impressive and eclectic art collection. From medieval altars and delicate sculptures to East Asian artifacts and modern art, everything finds its predetermined place here.
Arts and Crafts in the Spessart
The architecture of the house breathes the spirit of the Arts and Crafts movement. Particularly noteworthy is how deeply Anton Gentil himself intervened in the creation process: he personally conceived and manufactured large parts of the interior fittings, furniture, and decorative elements. Every corner of the house reflects his individual signature and his demand for handcrafted perfection.
A Living Legacy
Today, the Gentil House serves as a museum preserving the rich legacy of its builder. It offers visitors the rare opportunity to immerse themselves in the visionary world of a collector whose taste knew no bounds. For current information on exhibitions and its eventful history, I recommend a look at the official site of the Aschaffenburg Museums.
Kilian Anton Gentil – "Pumpen-Anton"
Behind the museum stands the impressive personality of Kilian Anton Gentil (1867–1951). A trained locksmith and molder, he laid the foundation for his fortune with the production of pumps—earning him the charming local nickname "Pumpen-Anton." Yet his heart beat for art. In 1949, he gifted his entire, priceless estate to his home city. A visit to "Anton" is currently possible as part of a guided tour and is highly recommended.
