Rienzi Mansion in Houston, TX is the home of an extensive and remarkable art collection that has been opened since 1999. Located at the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston on 4.4 acres, Rienzi is the center for European decorative arts. Carroll Sterling Masterson and Harris Masterson III, two famous art patrons, donated Rienzi to the museum, a generous donation consisting of a house, gardens and an extraordinary art collection. Rienzi was named for Mr. Masterson's grandfather, Rienzi Johnston. Rienzi Mansion is situated in Homewood Addition, which is in the heart of the Houston's River Oak neighborhood and was designed by John F. Staub in 1952.
Rienzi Mansion has been an active center for philanthropic and civic activities as well as a family home since its construction was completed in 1954 right up until the deaths of Mr. and Mrs. Masterson in 1994 and 1997. The collection of art you'll find at Rienzi's is some of the best Worcester porcelain to be found in the United States plus an extraordinary English and European painting collection. You'll also get a glimpse at a collection of English furniture that is quite outstanding. Many come just to view the magnificent formal gardens and Texas woodlands, which are cared for by Ralph Ellis Gunn, a well known landscape architect.
The mansion is decorated and furnished in English, Italian and Roman styles, which makes it very interesting for many visitors. Some come to see the exquisite art collection while others come to view the mansion and beautiful gardens. You will need reservations to be admitted to the mansion, but they are open seven days a week. They offer guided tours that are very enjoyable.
