Kruger Collection

Discovering the Kruger Collection in Lincoln, Nebraska

The Kruger Collection is a unique museum located in Lincoln, Nebraska. It showcases the Eloise Kruger Collection of Miniature Furnishings and Decorative Arts, comprising nearly 20,000 meticulously crafted pieces. These miniatures stand at a 1:12 scale and represent historically accurate American, English, French, and Asian designs. Currently, about 2,500 pieces are available for public viewing.

About the Collection

The collection includes an impressive variety of handmade miniatures. They were collected and commissioned by Eloise Kruger and crafted by renowned model artists. Each piece reflects meticulous attention to detail, offering a realistic glimpse into historical design trends. Visitors can admire a range of environments, from a 1950s American living room diorama to detailed depictions of kitchens, such as the C. Lauer and Clara Ward collection.

Visiting the Museum

The Kruger Collection gallery is located on the 8th floor of Oldfather Hall, adjacent to room 827. The museum regularly updates its hours. For instance, it will be open during the Dec. 6 First Friday event from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., though it will close until the spring semester afterward. Interested visitors can contact Linda Kohlstaedt, the collection manager, to schedule an appointment for a personalized tour.

Exhibits on Display

Walking through the gallery, you will find thematic exhibits like “Crafting Beauty: Women Artisans in The Kruger Collection” and “Homesteading, Resilience and Survival in the Great Plains.” These exhibits illuminate the artisans’ craftsmanship while exploring the cultural histories behind these unique pieces. Signature items in the collection are digitized and stored in an online archive, allowing enthusiasts to explore about 3,000 miniatures interactively.

Learn More and Connect

To delve deeper into this enchanting world of miniature art, you can visit the Kruger Collection online. Here, you will find an archive filled with information and images of the stunning pieces on display. Whether you are an art lover, a history buff, or simply curious, the Kruger Collection offers a fascinating look into decorative arts and craftsmanship.

For more visitor information, including policies and reports, please check the museum’s related links and contact sections on their homepage.