NARRATOR: This mask is different from every other mask in this gallery… because it would have been worn and performed by a woman. Female masking performances are rare in Africa. The Sowei mask plays an important role in the all-female Sande Society. This society is a lifelong network of women among the Vai, Mende and neighboring peoples in present-day Sierra Leone.

CHRISTRAUD GEARY: Now if you look at the Portuguese soldier, there are certain details that I don’t want you to miss. One is that everything is articulated in the greatest detail. Look at his hands, they’re beautifully done, and look at the fact that you can see his fingernails, even. Look at his feet, same thing, they’re beautifully executed.

RONNI BAER: When I first looked at this painting in the context of this exhibition, I asked myself, “How can we tell the difference between a mistress…

If you’re planning to bring a school group to the MFA on a self-guided visit, here are some activities to bring along that will make your visit that…

With surprises around every corner, the MFA is a perfect place for the kids in your life! A wondrous and welcoming place to spend quality time with…

Ticket Availability General admission tickets now on sale for dates through June 2022. All “Turner’s Modern World” tickets now on sale. The exhibition…

Visitors to the MFA have a variety of self-parking and valet parking options.

To request a school group visit: Select from the options described below. Complete a Guided Tour Reservation Request or Self-Guided Visit Reservation…

Designed in the spirit of a European palace, the renovated Koch Gallery showcases paintings from Italy, France, Flanders, and Spain from 1550 to 1700 and German silver.