The Met

Focusing on the people and events that shaped the Met, Jonathan Conlin's work delves into the museum's 150-year history through the lens of its directors, curators, and the diverse communities that interacted with it. By examining archival materials and oral histories, he presents a narrative that moves beyond traditional top-down histories, highlighting pivotal moments like European acquisitions during the Franco-Prussian War and the influence of benefactors. The book explores the complex interplay of social classes, art connoisseurship, and cultural identity within this iconic institution.