Through January 4, 2026
The Met
At the dawn of the 20th century, European ceramic artists boldly ventured beyond traditional methods and styles, embracing innovation and artistic freedom that defined the modern era in decorative arts. This transformative period saw a renewed fascination with the natural world, inspiring creators to experiment with new forms, decorative techniques, and conceptual ideas, thereby reshaping how ceramics were perceived and crafted.
Making It Modern: European Ceramics from the Martin Eidelberg Collection showcases an exceptional selection of approximately 80 ceramic works gifted by Dr. Martin Eidelberg to The Met. These pieces, dating from the 1880s to the 1910s, provide a fascinating glimpse into the experimental spirit of the period. While overlapping with the Art Nouveau movement—known for its stylized natural motifs—the exhibition reveals ceramics that transcend easy classification, highlighting instead a quest for individual artistic expression. Each item encapsulates the vibrant creativity that made this period one of the richest chapters in European ceramic history.
Visitors will discover how these artists, inspired by nature’s forms, infused their works with a modern sensibility that combined innovation with craftsmanship. The exhibition thoughtfully presents this nuanced narrative, bridging historical context with visual beauty and technical mastery.
Accompanying the exhibition is an issue of The Metropolitan Museum of Art Bulletin, which offers deeper insights into the featured works and their significance within the broader art historical landscape. Notably, The Met’s quarterly Bulletin program benefits from support by the Lila Acheson Wallace Fund, established by the co-founder of Reader’s Digest, underscoring the institution’s commitment to advancing art appreciation and scholarship.
Immerse yourself in this captivating exploration of European ceramics that not only celebrates a vital era of artistic transformation but also honors the generosity of Dr. Eidelberg’s gift, which enriches The Met’s collection and invites fresh appreciation of ceramic art’s evolving forms and meanings.
For more information, please visit the official exhibition page at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
