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Representing the consummation of an ideal, there had been built by Mr. and Mrs. John Ringling one of the largest Art Museums in the U. S. The building has 22 side lighted galleries from 40 to 110 ft. long. For the most part the 450 original paintings from every important school from the 13th century to the 19th hang in separate period rooms. 76 life size statues overlook the garden or patio.

Later in 1980 the Legislature would designate the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art at Sarasota as the "official art museum of the state." The museum was bequeathed to the State by John Ringling, of circus fame, and has been operated since 1946 by board of Trustees appointed by the Governor. The trustees are authorized to loan paintings and other objects of art to the Governor's mansion and to schools, libraries and other public buildings where such loans are in the interest of the public.