MFA Boston Opens Live Conservation Studio for Dutch Masterpiece

The Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) in Boston will offer visitors the opportunity to watch the live conservation of Nicolaes Eliasz Pickenoy’s 1625 group portrait, "The Founders of the Amsterdam Wine Merchants Guild." This year-long restoration project begins on 9 December 2026.

The painting, acquired by the museum in the previous year, depicts the six founding members of the Amsterdam Wine Merchants Guild, an organisation that operated until the late 18th century. The artwork is an example of Dutch Golden Age portraiture.

To enable public viewing, the MFA has set up a pop-up studio in the Innovation Gallery of its Center for Netherlandish Art. Conservators, scientists, art historians, and curators will rotate through the studio, allowing visitors to observe the conservation process as it happens.

This initiative offers insight into the detailed work involved in preserving historic art and highlights the collaboration among specialists dedicated to cultural heritage.

Throughout the year, visitors will be able to follow the restoration, learning about both the technical and historical aspects of caring for the painting. The project reflects the MFA’s commitment to transparency and public engagement in art conservation.