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The Cathedrals of Art was the last painting in the Cathedrals series and was still in process when Stettheimer died in 1944. Here the artist describes the world she knows best: the world of museums, artists, and art. The Metropolitan Museum of Art serves as center stage for a rather entertaining performance of critics, artists, dealers, museum visitors, trustees, and directors who simultaneously perform their respective duties in ironic and outrageous ways. Also appearing in this veritable commedia dell'arte are recognizable caricatures of works of art and several adorable children symbolizing "New Art."

The Cathedrals of Art, 1942–44
Florine Stettheimer (American, 1871–1944)
Oil on Canvas; 60 1/4 x 50 1/2 in. (153 x 127.6 cm)
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
Gift of Ettie Stettheimer, 1953 (53.24.1)

Photograph Credits