In Praise of Painting: Dutch Masterpieces at The Met

Don’t miss In Praise of Painting at The Met Fifth Avenue.

Next year will be the 350th anniversary of the death of renowned Dutch painter Rembrandt van Rijn, and The Netherlands is celebrating his life and the Golden Age throughout 2019. If you’re able to skip across the pond, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Rembrandt’s life and work and explore the beautiful cities of Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam, while visiting exhibitions throughout Holland. If traveling to The Netherlands next year isn’t on your radar, grab a taste of Dutch culture right here in New York City when you experience In Praise of Painting at The Met. This curated exhibition with masterpieces from Dutch artists Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and Johannes Vermeer will be on display until 2020.

Dutch paintings from the Golden Age have been featured at The Met since the museum was purchased in 1871, but In Praise of Painting exhibits these works in a new way. The paintings are no longer scattered throughout the museum (some have been brought out of storage too), but rather, the 67 pieces are united and organized by theme, highlighting key issues in 17th-century Dutch culture and honoring this fascinating chapter of art history.

This wonderful exhibition brings the beloved works from the Golden Age back to life! Expect to see a collection of portraits, landscapes, still life paintings, and everyday scenes.

I visited on a crowded weekday afternoon, but you might try going after dark since The Met is open late on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s usually not as busy in the evenings. The museum also takes on a completely different persona at night. It’s mysterious and romantic, much like the works from the Golden Age.

Here’s a note from Adam Eaker, the assistant curator of In Praise of Painting.

In Praise of Painting runs through October 4, 2020.

Also, if you’re not aware, The Met is no longer pay as you wish. More on that policy here.

Plus, some favorite exhibits to check out while you’re at the museum. 

If you need to clear your head, browse the Egyptian Art section. The collection is astounding! And if you’re having a bad day (or week), take an hour or two and wander anywhere in The Met. You won’t regret it.

Have you shopped The Met’s store? Here are a few gift ideas for yourself or someone else! Charm earrings.  A gorgeous necklace. And for the artists in all of us, Paul Klee.

Posted on December 5, 2018