From Grief to Art: The Heartfelt Journey of a Couple Who Collected 165 Child Portraits

When Yannick and Ben Jakober faced the tragic loss of their daughter at the age of 19, they channeled their grief into a unique and poignant project: creating the Nins collection, a remarkable assemblage of 165 child portraits spanning the 16th to 19th centuries. This one-of-a-kind collection features works by renowned masters such as Ottavio Leoni, Frans Pourbus the Younger, and François Quesnel, capturing the essence of childhood in an era where many children did not survive to adulthood.

A Journey into Art

The couple's journey began in 1963, when Yannick first laid eyes on Joan Mestre i Bosch's Girl with Cherries (1843), igniting a passion for collecting that would evolve over the years. Following the tragic death of their daughter Maima in 1992, the couple dedicated the Nins collection to her memory, establishing a foundation that would honor her spirit.

The Museum Experience

Located in Mallorca, the Museo Sa Bassa Blanca showcases their art collection, which is a vibrant mix of pieces that resonate with themes of childhood, loss, and joy. The gallery built to house the Nins, known as the Aljibe, is a tranquil space that invites contemplation, allowing visitors to explore the rich stories behind each portrait.

Stories Behind the Portraits

Yannick guides visitors through the collection, sharing profound narratives tied to the children depicted. Each painting reflects not only artistic mastery but also the tragic and often cruel fates of the young subjects. For instance, the portrait of Princess Caroline Matilda of Wales, painted in 1752, encapsulates a life marred by tragedy, while the melancholic Portrait of María Concepción Montaner serves as a haunting reminder of a life cut short at just eight years old.

A Legacy of Art

As they approach the twilight of their lives, the Jakobers reflect on their journey, acknowledging the emotional core that has driven their collecting. With limited space and funds, they now prepare for the collection's legacy to endure beyond them, ensuring that the stories of these children and their art will continue to resonate with future generations.