Frank B. Rhodes | FurnitureMaker Reproduction and Restoration of Traditional American Furniture Since 1983 Chestertown, Maryland | 410.778.3993

The Garbisch Collection History

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Colonel Edgar William and Bernice Chrysler Garbisch were collectors of fine American antiques and paintings. They had residences in Florida and New York but the estate on the Eastern Shore of Maryland was home. “Pokety Farm” was their special retreat where grandson, Frank Rhodes, spent many summers and it was here that he acquired his love of furniture and other antiques. They taught him to appreciate the detailed work of bygone craftsman.

Colonel & Mrs. Garbisch passed away in 1979 and within 4 years Frank had started to reproduce many of the pieces in their collection of fine antiques. He also has patterns from many other museum quality antiques.

The Garbischs coined the name “Naïve Paintings” for the art form that was previously called “Primitive”. Their collection of Naïve paintings was extensive with over 2,600. Upon their deaths most of these were left to various museums throughout the country with an extensive collection at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC.

We have tried to list as much information about the Garbisch Collection as possible. I am constantly searching for new articles and earlier ones I may have missed. It is my intention to provide updates or additions as they arrive.

 

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“A lifetime of Love and Lore: The Garbisch Collection”

For five decades, Edgar William and Bernice Chrysler Garbisch quietly coUected an amazing range of fine art and antiques. Now many of them go on the block.  Read More >>>

 

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“Last View of a Master Collection”

For lovers of American, a visit to Pokety, the Maryland Eastern Shore estate of the late Colonel Edgar William and Bernice Chrysler Garbisch was an unexcelled experience. Read More >>>