Henry Sarjeant |
Henry Sarjeant (1830-1912) immigrated to New Zealand
from England about 1860 and settled in the Wanganui
Region. After his death, Henry's wife Ellen consolidated
her husband's interest in the arts which had been
generously provided for in his Will. This document also
outlined his intention for quality:
" It is my desire that works of art shall be purchased
or acquired on account of their intrinsic value as work
of high art only and not because they are specimens
of local or colonial art so that the said gallery shall
be furnished with works of the highest art in all branches
as a means of inspiration for ourselves and those who
come after us."
Henry Sarjeant's ability to grasp opportunity in a
new land engendered a prosperity that enabled him to
facilitate his vision for a culturally invigorating
art museum and collection, an institution of national
significance throughout the 20th century and one commemorating
his name
throughout
New Zealand and beyond.
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