Discover the “MS Master and His Age” Exhibition in Budapest
The “MS Master and His Age” exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts is a must-see event for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious travelers alike. Running from April 9 to July 20, 2025, this exhibition invites you to step into the late medieval world of one of Hungary’s most mysterious and influential artists, known as MS Master, and the fascinating era in which he lived.
Plan Your Visit
- Exhibition dates: April 9, 2025 – July 20, 2025
- Location: Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest, ground floor, temporary exhibition hall
- Accessibility: Centrally located near Heroes’ Square, easily reachable by public transport
The Heart of the Exhibition: The Selmecbánya Altarpiece
At the center of this remarkable exhibition is the former main altarpiece of the St. Catherine Church in Selmecbánya, considered MS Master’s most iconic work. For the very first time, all seven surviving panels of this monumental masterpiece are displayed together, offering visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to admire these treasures side by side. This reunion provides a rare glimpse into the spiritual and artistic life of late medieval Hungary.
Explore Nearly 100 Artworks and Historical Artifacts
The exhibition features almost one hundred works, including paintings, newly attributed pieces, maps, architectural models, goldsmith artifacts, and historical documents. These diverse displays paint a comprehensive picture of MS Master’s creative environment, the artistic regions that shaped his style, and the broader historical context of Hungary at the turn of the 15th and 16th centuries.
Unraveling the Mystery of MS Master
One of the most intriguing aspects of the exhibition is its focus on the mystery surrounding the MS monogram. Curators present new research and theories about the artist’s identity, inviting visitors to engage with one of Hungarian art history’s greatest unsolved puzzles. Alongside well-known masterpieces, you’ll discover several newly identified works attributed to MS Master, expanding our understanding of his artistic legacy.
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A Journey Through the Jagiellonian Era
To fully appreciate MS Master’s achievements, the exhibition provides an immersive introduction to the Jagiellonian period (1490–1526). This era marked the last golden age of the medieval Hungarian Kingdom, characterized by peace, prosperity, and cultural flourishing. The display highlights how the Italian Renaissance and German late Gothic styles coexisted and influenced Hungarian art, making this period a vibrant crossroads of European culture.
Behind the Scenes: Art Attribution and Restoration
The exhibition also takes you behind the scenes of art historical research. Discover how historians, art experts, and restorers have worked together to identify MS Master’s hand in previously unrecognized works. Learn about the scientific techniques used to study and preserve these centuries-old treasures, and follow the artist’s journey from his early days in Nuremberg to his successful career in Vienna.
Highlights of the Exhibition
- First-ever reunion of the Selmecbánya altarpiece panels
- Nearly 100 works, including paintings, drawings, and goldsmith artifacts
- Interactive displays with maps, models, and historical documents
- New research on the identity of MS Master
- Insights into the artistic and cultural life of late medieval Hungary
The Museum of Fine Arts: A World-Class Venue
Located beside Heroes’ Square, the Museum of Fine Arts in Budapest is a destination in itself. Built in an eclectic neoclassical style, the museum boasts a collection of over 120,000 works from all periods of European art. Highlights include masterpieces by Raphael, El Greco, Velázquez, Rembrandt, Monet, and Cézanne. The museum’s six main sections cover everything from Egyptian antiquities to modern art, making it a treasure trove for any visitor.
Don’t Miss This Unforgettable Cultural Event
Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or a curious traveler, the “MS Master and His Age” exhibition is one of Budapest’s top cultural events for 2025. Step into the world of medieval Hungary, explore artistic mysteries, and witness the enduring legacy of a master whose works continue to inspire awe centuries later. Add this exhibition to your Budapest itinerary and experience a unique journey through history and art!