The Metropolitan Museum of Art has reopened its 45 European art galleries following a comprehensive five-year renovation project. This significant endeavor aims to showcase iconic works by artists like Rembrandt, Caravaggio, and Goya in a rejuvenated light, both literally and metaphorically.
On November 20, The Metropolitan Museum of Art unveiled its newly reimagined 45 galleries dedicated to European Paintings from 1300 to 1800. This extensive renovation project focused on skylight upgrades that commenced half a decade ago.
The exhibition, "Look Again: European Paintings 1300–1800," presents over 700 artworks, including pieces by celebrated artists like Rembrandt, Caravaggio, and Poussin, as well as an extensive collection of El Greco and Goya outside Spain. The museum's website promises a fresh narrative and thematic grouping, aiming to highlight the interconnectedness of different cultures and moments in the collection.
This renovation marks the largest infrastructure upgrade in the museum's history, requiring a budget of approximately $150 million (€138 million).
Max Hollein, The Met's Director and CEO, expressed excitement about the reopening, stating that it invites visitors to rediscover their favorite artworks and explore new additions within a carefully considered context.
The renovation involved the replacement of 30,000 square feet of skylights, originally installed in 1939 and last updated in 1952. The upgraded skylights provide improved lighting quality in the galleries, increased energy efficiency, and optimal conditions for the displayed paintings.
Stephan Wolohojian, the Curator in Charge of the Department of European Paintings, emphasized the project's opportunity to reimagine the presentation of The Met's collection, aiming to engage and enrich the experience for diverse audiences.
Jean Dubreil