The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Inside cover indicates book was printed in Italy in 1980. Pages are thick- colors in paintings are bold and appear very accurate. I see detail in these reproductions that I do not see in newer art books. Excellent notations and narrative and a comprehensive guide to the various centuries of art in linear fashion. Good concise summary of the museums collection- never been to the museum so this is probably the next best thing. Well organised and well worth the money if you buy it used in very good condition (I paid just .34 cents for mine- plus 3.99 shipping - amazing deal for a book of this quality!) Highly recommend.

Although out of print, the Hibbard book is well worth finding. It not only displays much of the best of the Met's extensive collection in all artistic areas and describes them with errudition, it also gives a brief summary of the development of the collection and biographies of some of its contributors and early directors. When I first moved to New York, this was one of the first books I purchased. I visited a section of the museum to get a feel for the display, then read this and another book on the art styles and artists of that particular period, then returned to visit the collection with newly educated eyes. It was a tremendous experience. I must admit, it took me months to actually get through most of the museum, but by God, with the aid of this book, I got nearly everything out of those visits a person can!