BOSTON, MA.- The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA) unveiled 16 classic European sports cars drawn from the personal collection of Ralph Lauren. Mr. Lauren is known to have one of the most exceptional collections of cars in the world, and the Museum has chosen some of his finest and rarest examples to be exhibited in Speed, Style, and Beauty: Cars from the Ralph Lauren Collection. On view through July 3, 2005, this exhibition showcases beautifully-designed European automobiles created between the 1930s and the 1990s, illustrating the evolution of car design to the present. The cars — 15 of which are displayed in the Museum’s second floor Gund Gallery — have never been exhibited together before and many have never been seen by the public. Additionally, a spectacular 1958 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa, is positioned in the Museum’s West Wing lobby. In conjunction with the exhibition, the Museum has produced a breathtaking publication with commentary from Ralph Lauren, the curator as well as automotive historians, and created a number of exciting programs including special Hoods Up evenings, when several of the cars’ equally stunning engines will be displayed.

Speed, Style, and Beauty: Cars from the Ralph Lauren Collection illustrates the sleek design and superior craftsmanship of such renowned automakers as Alfa Romeo, Bentley, Bugatti, Ferrari, Jaguar, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche. The exhibition is cosponsored by Merrill Lynch. The media sponsor is CBS 4 and the print media sponsor is The Boston Phoenix.

“These cars — with their exquisite lines and innovative designs — are works of art, and their designers are artists,” said Malcolm Rogers, Ann and Graham Gund Director of the MFA. “This spectacular exhibition will attract new visitors to the MFA, including families, car aficionados, and those who appreciate design, fashion and objects of great beauty.”