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Minneapolis Institute of Art Acquires Eight Works, Including Rare Francia and Reunited Portraits

institutional · 2026-08-12

The Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) has revealed the addition of eight new works and collections, greatly enriching its collection of European paintings, American and contemporary sculptures, Latin American kinetic art, and Japanese textiles. This move highlights Mia's dedication to curating a collection that is both historically significant and globally representative. A standout piece is Francesco Francia's 'Madonna and Child with Saint Francis' (1503), a remarkable example of Italian High Renaissance art. The museum has also brought together two 17th-century portraits of a father and son by Nicolaes Pickenoy and Dirck van Santvoort, which had been apart since 1885. Furthermore, the acquisitions feature Alison Saar's 'Citizen Cane' (2025), a monumental symbol of resistance, reflecting Mia's commitment to diversifying its collection across different cultures and eras.

Key facts

  • The Minneapolis Institute of Art acquired eight works and collections.
  • The acquisitions span European painting, American and contemporary sculpture, Latin American kinetic art, and Japanese textiles.
  • Francesco Francia's 'Madonna and Child with Saint Francis' (1503) is a highlight.
  • Two 17th-century Amsterdam portraits by Nicolaes Pickenoy and Dirck van Santvoort were reunited after being separated since 1885.
  • Alison Saar's 'Citizen Cane' (2025) is a larger-than-life allegory of resistance.
  • The acquisitions reflect Mia's commitment to global and art-historically significant works.

Entities

Artists

  • Francesco Francia
  • Nicolaes Pickenoy
  • Dirck van Santvoort
  • Alison Saar

Institutions

  • Minneapolis Institute of Art

Locations

  • Minneapolis
  • United States
  • Amsterdam
  • Netherlands

Sources