Ruth Leon recommends… Flowers and Gardens – Met Museum
In this season where flowers are everywhere in full bloom, I remembered this sweet film dating from the early ‘80s about the flower arrangements in the Museum itself and the paintings they relate to.
Flowers are more than merely decorative. People throughout time have used them as storytelling devices. Across eras and cultures, they have been cherished for their healing properties, as well as their religious and folkloric significance. In this 1982 film, learn about flowers in The Met collection, from the daily floral arrangements that grace the Great Hall to the medieval gardens at The Met Cloisters.
Explore the paintings of Monet, Manet, and Redon and see several standout examples of Japanese decorative art, including a portable picnic set that draws design inspiration from the peony blossom.
