This year’s exhibition is the first to present treasures from the imperial family that have never before been seen in public. The focus is on the family of Archduke Rainer, who, as Viceroy of Lombardy, led a lavish court life in Milan before the line returned to Austria in the mid-19th century. The exhibits, which come from descendants, not only provide a previously unknown, but above all a very personal and lively insight into the everyday and private life of the imperial family away from the public eye. Precious exhibits such as unique works of art, sumptuous gala dresses and accessories, magnificent table services, furniture, and collections from their travels to the Near and Far East form the opulent backdrop for never-before-seen fascinating documents of private and social life, which tell of the visionary research activities as well as the political activities of previously lesser-known personalities from the Habsburg dynasty. Archduke Heinrich also plays a special role. He initially married his great love, the singer Leopoldine Hofman, without Emperor Franz Joseph’s permission and was therefore forced to leave the country. However, since the two continued to follow all family rules and were enormously popular among the population, the emperor made an exception and welcomed them back into the imperial family, thus giving this extraordinary love story a happy ending.
The highlights of this exhibition also include precious pieces of jewelry that tell of elegant parties and family celebrations and give an idea of the imperial family’s former wealth of jewels.
Discover previously unknown treasures in this unique and exclusive exhibition, which offers a completely new insight into the private life of the imperial family.