Philadelphia Art Community Rallies to Secure Eakins’ ‘The Gross Clinic’ for City
In 2006, Philadelphia art institutions and residents rallied to raise $68 million in 45 days to purchase "The Gross Clinic," an iconic painting by Thomas Eakins, preventing its sale and keeping it in the city. The painting, depicting a surgical…
Philadelphia, PA, August 22, 2026 —
In a remarkable display of civic pride and artistic dedication, Philadelphia art institutions and residents came together in 2006 to raise an astounding $68 million in just 45 days. The urgent fundraising effort was initiated to prevent the sale and permanent removal of Thomas Eakins’ iconic painting, “The Gross Clinic,” from the city.
The celebrated painting, which vividly depicts a surgical procedure, was at the center of a significant cultural preservation campaign. Originally owned by Jefferson University, the institution decided to put the masterpiece up for sale. This decision spurred a swift and substantial public and private fundraising initiative aimed at matching the painting’s sale price and ensuring its continued presence in Philadelphia.
The campaign’s success highlighted the deep connection between the city and its artistic heritage. The collective effort mobilized a wide range of supporters, from major donors and art patrons to everyday citizens, all united by a common goal to safeguard a pivotal piece of American art history. The $68 million raised within the compressed 45-day timeline was a testament to the community’s commitment to keeping “The Gross Clinic” accessible to the public and its significance to Philadelphia’s cultural landscape.
Story summarized from the original created by Morgan Ritter on www.inquirer.com, see more information here.
