The Biggest Art Set In The World: The Metropolitan Museum Of Art And Me

Americans are properly proud of much of their past, particularly as it pertains to the principles of democracy and governance. The nation has disseminated its principles across the globe and risen, in only two short centuries, to a position of global leadership. Yet, when it comes to art and culture, there's never been any question how youthful the country is, particularly compared to far older countries over the Atlantic. The Metropolitan Museum of Art was founded to ease some of it, and to show the world that America could hold its own with the premier galleries of the rest of the world.

From the outset, the Met has been distinctive, since unlike many European museums, the backing for the huge New York City museum came from contemporary tycoons and donors, instead of ancient families with riches and property. Like the rest of the city, the museum flourished swiftly, as the wealthy of New York and other cities throughout the country vied to see who could contribute the most paintings or pieces of art. Having one's art at the Met, or contributing to it, became something of a status symbol, a method to display distinction and significance. Putting one's name on a gallery wall or a wing of the continuously growing museum may establish a legacy.

This book gives a comprehensive picture of art history spanning more than five millennia and the whole world in the palm of your hand. It is a fantastic method to arrange a visit to the museum or to learn about the artworks after visiting them. This is an indispensable volume for lovers of art and art history, and for anyone who has ever dreamed of lingering over the most iconic works in the Metropolitan Museum's unparalleled collection