What Makes a True Collector?

A true collector of art purchases works because they have a passion for the artist's creation and are not looking for something to match the furniture or fit over the couch. Carlo Bilotti is an example of a true collector, and the work he mostly collected was the work of surrealist Giorgio di Chirico. Bilotti comes from a wealthy family in the paper business. He attended Columbia University in New York, married, moved back to Europe working and making his own fortune in the cosmetics/perfume industry. He was acquainted with Andy Warhol, Larry Rivers, Roy Lichtenstein, Salvador Dali, and Nikki de Saint-Phalle. Most of these artists have work in his collection. Carlo BIlotti passed away in 2006 at the age of 72.

The Villa Carlo Bilotti houses the collection. It is located within the Borghese Gardens. Another sign of a true collector is one who does not have room to display all their collection and also feels the need to share their treasure trove with the public. The villa was renovated in 1982 and became the museum in 2006. Below are portraits of Carlo Bilotti by Larry Rivers and of Tina and Lisa Bilotti by Andy Warhol.

Portrait of Carlo BIlotti with Dubuffet by Larry Rivers, 1994

Mother and Daughter, Tina and Lisa Bilotti by Andy Warhol, 1981

Giorgio de Chirico, Furniture in the Room, 1927.

Giorgio de Chirico, Metaphysical Interior with Biscuits, 1960 (repainted from a first version from 1918)

Giorgio de Chirico, Archaeology, 1927

Giorgio de Chirico, Blond Woman Looking Over Her Shoulder, 1930s. This reminds us of Renoir's figures especially in the rendering of the flesh but also Salvador Dali's portraits of his wife Gala from about the same time.