The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston (MFA) is large, beautiful, and impressive.
This was my second visit to MFA and I managed to cover the four floors of the American Wing in three hours. I did not stop to read all the placards but I did linger with pieces that captivated my interest. There is SO much to experience, you'll have to see for yourself!
Here are a few of my favorites:
The Windsor Chair Comparison Display
I particularly enjoyed the Windsor Chair display which compared and contrasted various Windsor Chairs from different regions and even continents. This is a very helpful exhibit and I think the guards grew tired of waiting for me to leave this room.
Philadelphia chair
Boston chair
Philadelphia Represents!
The American Wing at MFA has a number of pieces from Philadelphia. I was amazed! A large portrait of Fighting Quaker Timothy Matlack smiled down at me. I thought, "Wait a minute, Timothy Matlack was born in Haddonfield ,NJ, lived in Philadelphia and fought in the Revolution." Here is a portrait of our hero by Charles Wilson Peale at the MFA.
The famous bigger than life portrait of George Washington by Gilbert Stuart also resides at the MFA. The painting is so large, I nearly walked right by it.
There is also a fine display of Philadelphia 18th century furniture.
Seymour Room
Last year, I missed this gallery. It is tucked away down a corridor that appears to be off limits. No! It is a secret passage to a small gallery of phenomenal Seymour furniture. I walked in and collapsed on the seating provided for viewing. Just wow! All the amazing details! The master's work is here in this gallery, worth the price of the ticket.
Lady's writing table by Thomas Seymour 1771-1848
Detail of tambour by Thomas Seymour
Secretary Bookcase by Thomas Seymour
Detail Lady's Writing Table by John Seymour 1732-1818
Folk Art
The Folk Art gallery is a fun room filled with an assortment of weathervanes, painted furniture, and an impressive Rufus Porter mural from Maine.
Mural by itinerant artist and self taught scientist Rufus Porter
Finally, I had lunch at the New American Cafe in the MFA atrium. I had an unusually stylish chicken quesadilla and ice tea, a perfect and refreshing repast. I attempted to visit the other exhibits and wing of the museum, but, I was exhausted from my careful previous study of the past three hours and headed for the famous MFA gift shop.
Tickets for adults are $25. Would I bring my grandchildren here? Hmmm. Probably in small doses they may find it moderately interesting. This would work if you have a family membership. Parents did bring their children,but, the children seemed less than enthusiastic. There is a special week day discount for children. You can find this information on the MFA website. In my opinion, this fine museum is a place for thoughtful study. I anticipate a return visit and spending time in the European Wing.