The Formation of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1870

Name: The Formation of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1870
Start: 1870-04-13
Location: Unspecified

The Birth of the Metropolitan Museum of Art

The story of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, often simply referred to as The Met, begins in 1870 when a group of American citizens—including artists, businessmen, and civic leaders—decided to open a museum that would represent the artistic spirit of America. It was officially founded with the aim of providing access to art for the public and promoting awareness and education about the arts.

Founding Members of The Met

The founding members of the Metropolitan Museum of Art were driven by a vision. Among them were prominent figures such as John Taylor Johnston, who became the museum's first president. Johnston, along with other influential philanthropists like J.P. Morgan, believed that a museum like this would enhance the cultural heritage of New York City and the United States as a whole.

The Initial Location at the Dodworth Building

Initially, The Met opened its doors in the Dodworth Building located at 681 Fifth Avenue. This modest start in a rented space sparked the beginning of what would become one of the world's largest and most prestigious art museums. The building provided a crucial foundation for the collection of artworks that would grow exponentially over the years.

The Expansion and Evolution of The Met

Since its inception, The Met has undergone significant transformations that reflect the evolving art landscape and the growing needs of its visitors. What started with just a few European paintings has turned into an immense collection spanning over 5,000 years of art from various cultures and countries, encompassing over two million works.

Art for All at The Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the defining philosophies of The Met is its commitment to making art accessible to everyone. The Met emphasizes education through its programs, exhibitions, and the preservation of artworks, ensuring that all visitors have the opportunity to engage with art.

The Met's Architectural Journey

After its time in the Dodworth Building, The Met moved to its current location on the eastern edge of Central Park in 1880, and continues to expand with numerous renovations and additions, including the grand Met Fifth Avenue, designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt. Its architectural beauty complements the vast and diverse collections it houses.

Fun Fact

Unique Artifacts from the Start

When The Met first opened, it counted a mere 174 artworks in its collection. Today, it showcases everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary art, making it a treasure trove for art lovers globally.