Relevant Renaissance, Research Paper Example

Relevant Renaissance – Ruminations in Real Time

The Renaissance was a burgeoning period of artistic bliss. Celestial Monuments, scientific words, breathtaking canvases, insightful opinions, and Humanistic designs were legion. Twenty-fist century Americans have no trouble indentifying with the rapid escalations of information and ideas that were known to Europeans as they emerged from an age known as “dark” into the dawning light of knowledge, achievement, and social progress.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is pleased to welcome you to its newest exhibit, Relevant Renaissance –Ruminations in Real Time, an historic assemblage of works from Italy and made possible by the generous, global efforts of artistic benefactors. The history of this museum is rich with memories of similar displays. Some “Friends” of the Museum remember well our 2005 display of Renaissance musical artifacts. That show was promoted heavily by national media and was the subject of a PBS documentary.

The Exhibit

Relevant Renaissance is a once in a lifetime opportunity to witness priceless works, under one roof, at one time. The small, yet comprehensive collection, causes all museum goers to ponder, or ruminate, the 16^th century in new and exciting ways as they compare and contrast real time, or contemporary accomplishments, with those of the Italian Masters. Some of the pieces have never before traveled outside of Europe. The exhibit is on loan from the National Arts Council of Rome and will run from March 20-April 30, 2010.

The Sculpture of Donatello (1386-1466)

Renaissance Item: David– Bronze. This is believed to be the first example of an unsupported standing Renaissance work.

Real Time Items: David, the King of Israel and the famous slayer of the giant, Goliath, has inspired artists throughout all time. On display in our Heritage Room are examples of 57 artists who have sculpted David. The central figures in the West Wing of the room house the David’s of living artists.

The Art of Botticelli (1445-1510)

Renaissance Item: The Adoration of the Magi- Oil on Panel. This work features several members of the influential Medici family, patrons of the arts, who are painted in as characters.  

Real Time Items: Our Foundation Room features interactive video stations where living patrons of the arts, including those who have contributed to this show, tell, in their own words, why they support artistic endeavors. Their stories inspire.

The Literature of Machiavelli (1469-1527)

Renaissance Item: The Art of War- Original copy of the 1573 Withorne translation. This work is a Socratic dialogue extolling the virtues of a benevolent military system, armed and ready to protect its constituents.

Real Time Items: As companion to Machiavelli are full scale military weapons and photographs of our current military engagements in the Iraq and Afghanistan. These, housed in the Metropolitan Suite, are accompanied by living, active military veterans of these conflicts who are on hand to speak with visitors.

The Architecture of Palladio (1508-1580)

Renaissance Item: I Quattro Libi dell’Architettura –Original copy. This work lays out the system for the architectural brand that bears his name, the Palladian style.

Real Time Items: Four of the most ambitious architectural projects currently underway in the United States are featured through back and white photography in the Garden Entrance. These are complete with photos of how technology now assists the process of architectural design.

The Philosophy of Bruno (1548-1600)

Renaissance Item: A Philosophy of the Infinite Universe –Original copy. This work rested on free inquiry and came under Vatican scorn. Bruno, a priest, was burned at the stake as a heretic.

Real Time Items: The Rockefeller Auditorium hosts daily round-table discussions at 11:00 am and at 2:00 pm. These focus on the state of scientific thought in United States domestic policy.