The chronological presentation of the older art collection begins in the cross-shaped hall with outstanding works of religious art from the late Middle Ages. The art collection includes outstanding Renaissance masterpieces by artists such as Lucas Cranach the Elder and Tobias Stimmer. Another room shows important works by artists from Schaffhausen and across Switzerland from the 17th and 18th centuries, followed by Alexander Trippel’s neoclassical sculptures and works of 19th-century realism.

The Swiss trio Ferdinand Hodler, Cuno Amiet, and Félix Vallotton are represented with outstanding paintings. The tour concludes with works of post-war Expressionism (Otto Dix), the New Objectivity (Niklaus Stoecklin, Adolph Dietrich), and Surrealism (Werner Schaad).

The current presentation of contemporary art focuses on important new acquisitions from recent years. In addition to works by Schaffhausen-born artists Yves Netzhammer, Olaf Breuning, and Maya Bringolf, works by Leiko Ikemura and Martin Disler are also shown, both of whom are part of the collection’s focus. In an interplay of painting, photography, sculpture, and installations, the exhibition also reflects the growing media diversity of the contemporary art collection.