Dr. J. Monroe Thorington Collection

In 1970, the museum received the first of many donations from Dr. James Monroe Thorington, comprising primarily European folk art. An ophthalmologist from Philadelphia and an avid alpine mountaineer, Thorington collected folk art from the regions he visited throughout Europe. His gifts include numerous finely crafted decorative objects, such as snuff boxes and other utilitarian works distinguished by their artistry and craftsmanship. As one of the museum’s earliest and most significant donors, as well as an Honorary Trustee of the International Folk Art Foundation, Thorington is honored through the naming of the European and Hispano art storage room in his recognition.