Boston’s Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is, above all else, a best-tier collection of artwork in a beautiful location with a fantastic history.
Across the museum’s three floors, there is so much that will draw you in with its beauty. You can explore artwork, architecture, stained glass windows and history. You can also look out at the stunning courtyard that feels like it’s pulled straight out of Venice.
But for many, it’s better known for another distinction. It was the site of the largest unsolved art heist in history.
Boston Bucket List: The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
The museum that stands today was first opened to the public in 1903, when it was known as Fenway Court. It holds the private collection of Gardner, who stated in her will that her private art collection shall remain unchanged at the museum for the “enjoyment and education of the public forever.”
The collection is truly amazing. I found myself struck by the Blue Room, especially the “Yoho Falls” and “Astarte” by John Sargent.
But just a few feet from those paintings sits the most notable part of the room. Previously, it was the home of Manet’s “Chez Tortoni.” immediately, it’s just a blank frame.
It was the most popular item in the room.
A museum, and a true-crime tourist destination
Why the fascination? The Manet painting is one of 13 pieces of artwork that was stolen from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum 35 years ago.
In the early morning of March 18, 1990, two men dressed as police officers entered the museum.
After tying up the guards on duty, they ransacked the museum over the course of 81 minutes and made off with 13 pieces of art.
The stolen artwork includes:
- Rembrandt’s “Christ in the Storm on the Sea of Galilee”
- Rembrandt’s “A Lady and Gentleman in Black”
- Vermeer’s “Concert”
- Flinck’s “Landscape with an Obelisk”
- An ancient Chinese bronze gu
- A small self-portrait etching by Rembrandt
- Five works by Edgar Degas
- A bronze eagle finial
- Manet’s “Chez Tortoni”
The FBI values the total haul at more than $500 million. The museum is also offering up to a $10 million reward for information that leads to the works’ safe return.
In the years since the theft, no arrests have been made and none of the 13 artworks have been recovered – or officially spotted.
It’s a juicy story that’s become the subject of myriad books, podcasts and articles. WBUR’s prodcast, “Last Seen: Season 1,″ is a particularly informative and entertaining telling of the story.
For art purists, it must be a bit of a sideshow to what is a great museum. Yet amid the tours and gawkers, you can see art lovers tucked in the courtyard sketching the surroundings.
But at this point, the heist is tied into the ISG’s identity.
The museum leans into the story as part of its history. It has a full page on its website telling the story of the theft (along with directions on where to send tips). The museum also has an audio tour that lets listeners follow the movements of the thieves that night.
Throughout the museum, you can see signs pointing out where pieces were stolen. In the Dutch Room, where the thieves stole most of the art, there’s a sign that states plainly “Yes, we were robbed.”
What’s it like when you visit?
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum keeps a low profile, with little signage marking its location at Evans Way Park.
But once you step inside, it’s immediately apparent that this is a special place. The modernized entryway quickly transitions into cozy brick tunnels and richly appointed rooms.
The museum is small. As a result, there are some rooms that have an occupancy limit. During peak hours, you’ll have to wait in line to enter.
The exhibits sit in a ring around the center courtyard, which continues to impress as you make your way up and around.
The main attraction for many is the Dutch Room on the second floor. That was where the most famous artworks (the two Rembrandts and the Vermeer) were stolen.
While the exhibits may get packed, the museum offers plenty of places to take a break and get away from the crowds. There’s a comfy “living room” where visitors can relax. There’s also the “Cafe G” eatery, which offers table service with a seasonal menu of light, healthy fare.
I got the maple-roasted squash and burrata salad, which was bright and delicious. I also grabbed a slice of the tres leches cake for dessert. My waitress gave an excited “Oh, that’s my favorite,” when I ordered, which is always a good sign.
More info about the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
The museum does not allow large bags in the exhibits. There is a coat check counter where you can store your bags. You can also go downstairs to the free lockers, which provide easy storage.
Where is it located? — The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is located at 25 Evans Way in Boston.
How much does it cost? — $22 for adults, $20 for seniors, $15 for students with a valid ID.
Admission is free for those under 18.
What’s the parking situation? – There is no designated parking for the museum. Visitors can find street parking and private parking garages nearby.
When are they open? — Here are the business hours at the time of writing:
- Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Monday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Thursday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Friday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Saturday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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