The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the “Met” as it is commonly known, is one of the most iconic art museums in the world. Established in 1870 by a group of wealthy New Yorkers, it has been home to some of the most remarkable works of art from all over the world. But who opened this great institution?
The original founders of the Metropolitan Museum of Art were four prominent New York businessmen: John Taylor Johnston, Robert L. Stuart, William Young and Benjamin Wistar Morris. Together they set out to create a museum that would provide a place for the public to appreciate and study art from around the world.
They wanted to create an institution that would be open to all people regardless of their social, economic or educational backgrounds.
Johnston was a railroad executive and philanthropist who donated much of his personal collection to the museum. Stuart was a wealthy banker and art collector who provided financial support for the creation and running of the museum. Young was an experienced lawyer and philanthropist who provided legal counsel to help create an effective charter for the museum and Morris was a former mayor of New York City who provided political connections.
The four men worked together for several years in order to establish The Metropolitan Museum of Art, which officially opened its doors on February 20th, 1872.
Since then, The Met has become one of America’s premier art institutions. It houses over 2 million works from around the world spanning thousands of years. It has become a cultural landmark in New York City, welcoming millions of visitors each year.
In conclusion, The Metropolitan Museum of Art opened its doors in 1872 thanks to four dedicated founders: John Taylor Johnston, Robert L. Their vision created an iconic institution that has since become one of America’s premier art museums and welcomes millions across its threshold each year.