Enjoy Our Unique Collections

Paperweights

Bergstrom-Mahler Museum holds the finest and most representative collection of glass paperweights in the world, as well as one of the largest. The paperweights comprise our primary collection, and the majority of the museum's time and collection assets are focused here. Mrs. Evangeline Bergstrom bequeathed 632 pieces in 1958 to become the foundation of a collection that would grow to 2,300 objects. The majority of the pieces are on permanent display in our ground floor galleries, and the remainder is available to see in open storage. We strive to be a resource for collectors, artists, and scholars, as well as educate our museum visitors about this fascinating and appealing decorative art form.

Germanic Glass

Also originating with a bequest, the Germanic Glass is the museum's second-most significant collection. Ernst and Carol Mahler, two people influential in the museum's beginnings, generously donated their personal collection to the Bergstrom Art Center, ultimately giving their name to the institution as well. This collection presents a timeline of glass production from northern European regions encompassing modern day Germany, Austria, and Poland and dating from 1573 through the end of the 19th century. Roughly three hundred years of glass and artistic development are encapsulated in 258 pieces. This collection is one of a handful of its kind in the nation, with most others still residing in Europe. Visitors can see these exquisite pieces permanently displayed in our second-floor gallery.

Contemporary Glass

Since Wisconsin was home to the beginnings of the Studio Art Glass movement, it's fitting that our Wisconsin glass museum should have a fine display of pieces representing achievements in this art form. Movement fathers Harvey Littleton and Dominic Labino are represented, as well as giants such as Dale Chihuly, Marvin Lipofsky, Joel Philip Myers, William Carlson, and Ginny Ruffner. The collection also includes pieces by regional artists Audrey Handler, Michael Meilahn, and Wes Hunting. Bergstrom-Mahler Museum's collection numbers more than fifty pieces, with the majority generously donated by enthusiastic glass collectors Don and Carol Wiiken. The entire collection is displayed annually, with selected pieces displayed individually throughout the year.

Victorian Glass

A true collector, Mrs. Bergstrom also began our collection of Victorian Glass Baskets. After substantial gifts from patrons Marjorie Seybold and Judson Fowler, this collection grew to 102 pieces. From Vasa Murrhina to Amberina, opaline to opalescent, satin to spattered and spangled, this collection provides a comprehensive look at the variety of surface treatments applied by English and American artisans. The vast majority of objects take the basket form, but a few companion pieces, such as vases, pitchers, and rose bowls, round out the collection. These are exhibited annually.