On Sept 18, coinciding with the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s sail into the New York bay, a special exhibition at Bard Graduate Center explores the life and times of a fascinating woman, her family, and possessions. Born in theNetherlands, textile merchant Margrieta van Varick lived in Malaysia with her family before moving to Flatbush in 1686, bringing with her an astonishing array of Asian and European goods. One third of the 170 objects on exhibition are rarely seen, early treasures from N-YHS’s collections.

Bruce Weber, Senior Curator of 19th Century Art at the National Academy Museum, will give a gallery talk at 6:30PM on Sept 11, Friday, revealing the development and history of artistic interest in the figure in 19th and early 20th century America.