Piercings, tattoos, scarification, and even reshaped heads were held in high regard in many Pre-Columbian cultures. Such permanent changes were thought to make the body beautiful, strong, and powerful. Often steeped in ceremony, body transformations were associated with lasting changes in the identity of the wearer. Lasting Impressions presents three thousand years of body art practices in the Ancient Americas.
Through an active program of research and exhibitions, the museum strives to advance knowledge and stimulate appreciation of art by engaging visitors aesthetically, visually, and intellectually. We connect scholars with art, and art scholarship with the public.
Our galleries feature specialized collections of Byzantine and Pre-Columbian art, European masterpieces on view in the historic Music Room, and a rotating program of Special Exhibitions.
Mildred and Robert Woods Bliss initiated these collections in the first half of the twentieth century and provided the vision for future acquisitions after giving Dumbarton Oaks to Harvard University.
Admission to the Museum is free. Docent-led tours of the Special Exhibition take place every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 3:00 pm. Please see Visitor Information for further details.
Guided tours of the museum and garden can be arranged during morning hours for groups of 10 to 45 people.