Interesting art review over at the NYTimes; the Met has put together a showing of all their Dutch art pieces from the 17th century. But rather than classifying them by artist (typical) or age (also typical), they have classified them by donor and age of acquisition. This is more thoroughly explained in the article. The author appears to take a dim view of this, but I think it would be really interesting.
From the article:
We also gain quick perspective on relative talent. To see Rembrandt next to Bartholomeus Breenbergh or Jacob Duck is to know in a flash who was ahead of the curve, and why.
On exhibit are 5 Vermeers and a number of Rembrandts. The Vermeers are the reason I must find a way to see this exhibit.
See, Vermeer has only 36 extant paintings. From studying abroad in Europe, I've seen a good chunk of these. Okay, I've just seen 10. But there are several at the Met and in the Frick Collection in NYC. A bunch of them are in London, and I intend to visit all the Vermeers while I am there. I'd really love to someday see every Vermeer painting, and I definitely think it's possible. There are also tons at the National Gallery in DC, so I bet I've seen them and just don't remember. I also have family there, so I can certainly visit.
In any case, this looks to be an awesome exhibit. It is showing until January 6th, so I hope to find time to visit NYC by then.