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Perry Townsend Rathbone | |
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Born | July 3, 1911 |
Died | January 22, 2000 | (aged 88)
Alma mater | Harvard University |
Spouse | |
6th Director of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston | |
In office 1955–1972 | |
Preceded by | George Harold Edgell |
Succeeded by | Merrill C. Rueppel |
5th Director of the Saint Louis Art Museum | |
In office 1940–1955 | |
Preceded by | Meyric R. Rogers |
Succeeded by | Charles Nagel |
Perry Townsend Rathbone (July 3, 1911 – January 22, 2000) was one of the leading American art museum directors of the 20th century. As director of the St. Louis Art Museum from 1940 to 1955, and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston from 1955 to 1972, he transformed these institutions from quiet repositories of art to vibrant cultural centers. Known for his sensitive installations as well as his bold publicity stunts, he increased the membership and attendance figures of both institutions exponentially, and also added significant works to their permanent collections across the board.[1]