Senior Departmental Technician Maria Schurr discusses the influence of art on David Bowie's work through the collection of Thomas J. Watson Library.

Associate Curator Kurt Behrendt takes readers behind the scenes of Sacred Traditions of the Himalayas, closing June 14, and Textile Conservator Kristine Kamiya and Conservation Preparator Matthew Cumbie describe their work to conserve and display a dramatic skeleton dance costume on view in the exhibition.

In December 1950, the German Expressionist Max Beckmann set out from his Manhattan apartment to see his Self-Portrait in Blue Jacket, on view at The Met, when he suffered a fatal heart attack. Inspired by the poignant circumstances of the artist’s death, Max Beckmann in New York focuses on 40 beautifully illustrated works that Beckmann painted in the city during the last 16 months of his life, as well as earlier works in New York collections. An informative and accessible essay by art historian Sabine Rewald, as well as detailed catalogue entries for each work and generous excerpts from the artist’s letters, diaries, and ephemera, illuminate Beckmann’s difficult and tumultuous life and make this an essential volume for anyone interested in the artist.

Danielle Zwang, MuSe Intern in the Department of Egyptian Art, shares the rules of the game of Hounds and Jackals.

Associate Museum Librarian Robyn Fleming celebrates Fat Tuesday with vivid images of Mardi Gras costumes and celebrations from the past.

Elaborately decorated arms and armor were essential to the grandeur of Versailles. Armorer and Conservator Edward Hunter highlights some of these ceremonial weapons.

Alexander McQueen had a unique understanding of the dramatic potential of tailoring, as well as of how the actual fabric of a garment is intrinsic both to its shape and historical, cultural, and psychological impact.

This year, The Met is celebrating its 150th birthday! From a colorful fish that reminds us of the koi swimming in the pond of the Astor Chinese Garden Court—to a towering five-story cake—here are just a few of the amazing artworks and messages we received from #MetKids around the world.

Director Thomas P. Campbell introduces the stellar season of exhibitions now open at The Met.