On a recent trip to New York, I had my first visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The entrance was under construction, so I did not get the majestic entry I was expecting. Undaunted, I dropped off my coat at the cloakroom and remunerated the entry fee of $25. Not having any preconceived notions, I went in with an open mind following the large square layout of the building, taking in each room with all of its treasures, one at a time.
Roaming the first floor, I inhaled European paintings and drawings from the 14th-20th centuries. Modern and contemporary art from Boccioni, Picasso, and Rothko recommended a new vision for me. While European sculpture from the Italian Renaissance moved me with its detail. I stood in admiration of the wood works from the Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. But my favorite exhibit on the first floor was Arms and Armor. Maybe I have been watching too much “Game of Thrones,” but there is no denying the beauty and craftsmanship provided by blacksmiths over the centuries. This exhibit displayed Renaissance parade, Japanese armor, and jeweled weapons of the time. I am always amazed by the jewels and robings soldiers would wear for protection of their body and in the representation of their crown. I navigated from room to room with an appreciation of all the man made beauty in front of me. No cable, no cellphones, or apps, just artistic craftsmanship standing before me.
The second floor offered musical instruments from all regions of the world. While European paintings from Vermeer, Bruegel, and Mantegna stared back at me. I do have a gripe about the “Girl with a Pearl Earring.” She don’t look a damn thing like Scarlett Johansson. I need Hollywood to do better! I was able to get over my disappointment by the time I entered the Asian Art exhibit. The sculpture, the jade, the screens all captivated my senses. I kept thinking to myself, man, that piece would look so good in my apartment. They just don’t have artistry like this at Room and Board. There was so much to take in. Islamic art, Post-Impressionism, Sumerian sculpture all in one building lit to perfection. I could go back there seven days a week and never get bored. Enjoy the photo gallery I have included and feel free to tell me about your next visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Enjoy by Michele 