The Grand Tour

Curated by Sally Foster, Curator Prints and Drawings

This exhibition explores the golden – age of ‘The Grand Tour’—a cultural right–of–passage undertaken by, predominately, young British upper – class men from the late–1500s to the late–1700s. Inspired by a recent gift from Terence Lane OAM, the exhibition brings together objects from across the University’s collections. A sprawling subject full of contemporary complexities, The Grand Tour gives context to themes of classical architecture, art and archaeology, and the long – lasting impact a select group of influential collectors and amateur historians exerted on the British public’s perception of European culture.

Presented by: Archives and Special Collections, The University of Melbourne
at the Noel Shaw Galley, Level 1, Baillieu Library, University of Melbourne

Opens from 28 July, Monday – Friday 10:00am – 5:00pm until May 2026

Bookings Not Required