LEONARD LAUDER

LAUDER--Leonard. The Trustees and staff of The Metropolitan Museum of Art are profoundly saddened by the passing of Leonard A. Lauder, a visionary philanthropist, passionate collector, and steadfast friend of The Met for more than four decades. Leonard was, without a doubt, one of the most important benefactors in the Museum's history. His landmark contribution of the Leonard A. Lauder Cubist Collection--comprising iconic works by Picasso, Braque, Leger, and Gris--instantly established the Museum as a world leader in the study and presentation of early 20th-century art. At the same time, his generosity established the Leonard A. Lauder Research Center for Modern Art, which continues to foster a vibrant, ever-growing community for both emerging and veteran scholars in the field. Leonard's transformative vision was also evident in his 1984 gift of the Leonard A. Lauder Collection of American Posters, a definitive group of 1890s American literary posters that remains a cornerstone of our holdings in this area. Over the years, his deep commitment extended across the Museum, helping to shape the Departments of Photographs, Drawings and Prints, and European Paintings, among many others. In total, he strengthened The Met's collection with over 615 works of art. Beyond these tremendous contributions, Leonard will be fondly remembered at The Met simply for being Leonard, a kind and generous man who believed deeply in the power of art and the Museum itself to transform lives. Leonard possessed a singular ability to encourage curators and staff members alike through his enthusiasm and personal expertise. Every one of his visits--and there were many--began with a smile and a warm greeting to all he encountered. From gallery walks to exhibition visits and more, his keen eye noticed everything, making his guidance on many fronts truly invaluable. His devotion to this institution was matched only by his humility and warmth. His extraordinary generosity, insight, and unwavering commitment to art and its capacity to inspire and educate have left an indelible mark on this institution and on all of us privileged to know him. The entire Met community shares its heartfelt condolences with his widow, Judy Lauder; his brother and sister-in-law, Ronald and Jo Carole Lauder; and all the Lauder and Glickman families. We mourn the loss of an extraordinary friend and celebrate a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. Candace Beinecke, Co-Chair; Hamilton E. James, Co-Chair; Max Hollein, Marina Kellen French Director and CEO