Printing Press — collection feature

Boston has been a center for the collecting and appreciation of Monet’s paintings since the late 19th century. In honor of its 150th anniversary, the MFA celebrates a great treasure of its collection with a once-in-a-generation chance to see all 35 of the Museum’s oil paintings by Monet.

This month’s blog features artworks from the MFA Prints collection that are inspired by several current MFA exhibitions. Although our social contact with others may still be limited these days, the works below, along with an exploration of our People collection, can temporarily serve as a visit with these artists and their circle of friends.

More than a century ago, Danish illustrator Kay Nielsen created exquisite interpretations of classic fairy tales that remain some of the most memorable visions of enchantment and fantasy ever to appear in print. The MFA’s recent exhibition Kay Nielsen’s Enchanted Vision: The Kendra and Allan Daniel Collection, featured nearly 50 of his luminous and often haunting watercolors and drawings. The exhibition might be over, but you can still explore these selected highlights in more detail.

This February and throughout 2020, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston will mark its 150th anniversary. Through the decades, countless collectors, donors and gifts have helped shape the collection of today. With the help of MFA historian and archivist Maureen Melton, we’ve highlighted six artworks from three collectors and the backstories of how they came to leave a lasting impression.

Our bestselling print is Rest on the Flight into Egypt, by Luc Olivier Merson, especially during the holiday season. It has been featured on holiday cards and posters and included in several exhibitions. But what is the allure behind this 19^th century painting?