Ohio’s Cincinnati Art Museum has received the largest gift in the institution's history: a US$11.75m (€10.6m, £9m) donation to establish an endowment for Asian art.

Left by longtime museum supporters Carl and Alice Bimel, the gift – announced during a shareholder meeting – will enhance collections in the arts of South Asia, Greater Iran and Afghanistan.

Alice Bimel, who died in 2008, was a museum volunteer for more than 40 years, while Carl, who died in 2013, spent 45 years as a business owner and consultant in the concrete industry.

During their lifetimes, the Bimels grew an interest in South Asian art, as well as the art of Greater Iran and Afghanistan. According to the museum, they donated more than US$14m (€12.6m, £10.7m) during their lives, in addition to significant collection of objects to the museum.

“The Bimels’ act of immense generosity will advance a key area of study that is immeasurably important and highly relevant in contemporary society,” said museum director Cameron Kitchin.

“The Bimels gave countless volunteer hours, support and collections while they were with us. Now they add their vision to the future.”