The Barnes*

Albert Barnes, who grew up poor,
Became extremely rich
And had the means to buy some art,
Which satisfied an itch.

He bought Cezannes, Renoirs, Monets,
Picassos and Matisse
And mounted all upon his walls
As numbers did increase.

He wrote a will with lots of terms
About his precious art;
The public could come twice a week
And that was just the start.

His paintings weren’t to be moved
Or loaned to anyone,
But since his death, financial woes
Meant trouble had begun.

A legal battle did ensue;
The artwork all was moved.
In spirit, Barnes was honored;
A new building was approved.

And thus I got to see this art
His trustees seemed to save –
A treasure trove unparalleled –
While Barnes rolls in his grave!

*Barnes Foundation Museum in Philadelphia