Ep 1. An Acquiring Mind: Philippe De Montebello and the Metropolitan Museum of Art

An Acquiring Mind: Philippe De Montebello and the Metropolitan Museum of Art is the first episode of season 4 of Great Museums. This episode explores the relationship between Philippe De Montebello, the director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art from 1977 to 2008, and the museum itself.

The episode delves into De Montebello's impressive background - his father was a curator at the Louvre, and De Montebello himself started working at the Met as a summer intern at the age of 19. Throughout his tenure as director, De Montebello oversaw major changes and innovations at the museum, including the acquisition of countless pieces of art and artifacts.

Viewers are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the museum's acquisition process, including the crucial role that curators play in selecting pieces to add to the collection. The episode also highlights some of the museum's most famous and impressive acquisitions under De Montebello's leadership, such as the Temple of Dendur and the Euphronios Krater.

In addition to exploring De Montebello's role in shaping the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the episode also touches on some of the controversies that occurred during his tenure. This includes the hotly-debated acquisition of the "Madonna and Child" by Duccio di Buoninsegna, which came with a price tag of $45 million - a record amount for the acquisition of a single artwork.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to interviews with De Montebello himself, as well as other key players in the art world such as curators, art historians, and collectors. The episode also presents stunning footage of the museum's vast collections, and highlights the importance of the Met as a cultural institution not just in New York City, but around the world.

Overall, An Acquiring Mind: Philippe De Montebello and the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a fascinating look at one man's instrumental role in shaping one of the world's most important museums. It raises important questions about the ethics of acquiring priceless works of art, and offers viewers a glimpse into the complex inner workings of a cultural institution that has captured the hearts and minds of countless visitors over the years.