"I am particularly attracted by the beauty of an object, its craftsmanship, history, etc. ... When I began I did it for the joy of it, and it was only as the collections grew and such great interest was evidenced by others, that I came to the realization that the collection should belong to the country." - Marjorie Merriweather Post, 1970

Explore a microcosm of Marjorie Post's collection, from French decorative arts, such as Sèvres porcelain, to Russian liturgical objects and more. 

Hillwood's mansion looks very similar to how it appeared in Post's time, featuring her collections as she once lived with them. The second floor gallery delves into the history of this collection as amassed by Post and developed by the museum since its opening in 1977. 

Post had a love for an object's beauty, craftsmanship, and history. While many of her main areas of focus were France and Russia, the collection also reflects the ties to European courts, including those of Great Britain, Austria, Prussia, and Mecklenburg (in present-day Germany). Pieces from all over the world, reflecting the depth and breadth of the collections at Hillwood, are on display in this gallery.

In the 1950s, Post began to consider leaving her collection to the public. She worked with Marvin Ross, her curator, to make new acquisitions with the future museum in mind, filling in gaps in the collection and enhancing her concept. Today, inspired by Post's vision, Hillwood continues to acquire new works, carrying on her legacy.