The first Fra Angelico painting to reach the United States had a secret. In 1899, Isabella Stewart Gardner acquired Assumption and Dormition of the Virgin, one of four works in a series by the Italian Renaissance painter depicting scenes from the Virgin Mary’s life.

Angelico, a 15th century friarwho specialized in religious frescoes, was renowned for his sweeping altarpieces, and Gardner’s pioneering purchase was one of many that have cemented her legacy as a discerning and important collector.