The de Saisset Museum's collection began with nearly 100 paintings by the museum's namesake, Ernest de Saisset. Today, our collection of paintings and sculpture primarily includes works by 20th century and contemporary artists, many of whom have strong connections to California and the Bay Area.
Highlights of the painting and sculpture collection include pieces by Fletcher Benton, David Gilhooly, Valentin Popov, Henrietta Shore, and Brian Wall.
Several sculptures from our collection are permanently installed outdoors as part of our growing Public Art program.
Valentin Popov, Venetian Candles, 2003, oil on canvas, Gift of Dr. Gunther Haller, 2006.13.1.
Henrietta Shore, Untitled (Seated Girl), c.1905, oil on canvas, Gift of Mrs. Ruth Hijmans Van Anrooij, 1.813.1988.
Brian Wall, Elegy, 2012, stainless steel sculpture, Museum acquisition made possible by Brian Wall, Hackett | Mill Gallery, and donors of Santa Clara University.
Fletcher Benton, Going Around the Corner with X, 2008, painted steel, Gift of the artist, with assistance from Paula Kirkeby, in honor of William Rewak, S.J., 2013.4.1.