The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston has announced the renovation of its Dutch Room. The gallery is best known as the site of one of the largest art heists in history.

On 18 March 1990, thirteen works of art were stolen from the museum. Six of the most famous works were taken from the Dutch Room. Among them were two Rembrandt paintings cut from their frames, including his only known seascape. Those frames remain empty on the walls of the Dutch Room to this day. The crime remains unsolved, and the museum’s director says it is time to restore the room because “time itself has faded much of the gallery’s splendor.”

In the Dutch Room, a 23-year-old Rembrandt gazes upon a gallery that inspired him. Purchased in 1896, Rembrandt’s Self-Portrait, Age 23 is the painting that solidified Isabella’s decision to transform her private collection into a public museum. His portrait was the cornerstone of this gallery, but its surroundings look nothing like they did over 100 years ago. By early 2027, a young Rembrandt will look out over a restored space much closer to Isabella’s original vision, ready to welcome back the stolen works when they return to their rightful home.

The floor-to-ceiling project will encompass works of art and architectural elements throughout the gallery, including: frames, sculptures, and furniture; treatment of the sixteenth century Italian painted ceiling; reproduction of wall textiles and chair upholstery; conservation of terracotta floor tiles; and installation of a new energy efficient lighting system. In addition, several paintings will receive additional research, analysis, and conservation, including the first major work by Peter Paul Rubens to come to this country, as well as Ter Borch’s Music Lesson.

The gallery will remain open throughout the restoration project.