Pilgrimage to the Museum: Man’s Search for God through Art and Time

by Stephen F. Auth

Genres: Religion, Nonfiction, Art, Catholic

230 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2022

Reviews

[Fr Scott Reilly LC · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book. Stephen Auth’s writing style engaged me right away. he teaches the reader how to look at art to the eyes of a believer in Christ. I recommend this book for any one who is searching for truth, beauty and goodness.

[Kate Hornstein · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the idea of this book and the opening chapters worked best for me: seeing the evolution of how G*d and humans were represented in ancient Egyptian and Roman. There are touches of humor that prevent the book from being overly preachy. However, the book did not work for me as a whole because I would estimate more than half of these works of art are NOT on display in the Met currently (I spent a day hunting them down), not to mention the ones Auth throws in that are in other museums. It would seem that a book about works of art at the Met should talk about works of art that you can actually see there. Auth's website unhelpfully suggests arranging a $15K tour he can take you on (proceeds do go to charity, with 2 tickets made available each year by lottery). He suggests if you can't afford it, that you use the book as a guide...which you can't. The write-up of Salvador Dali's "Corpus Hypercubus" is good. Worth a read if you're interested in a Christian point of view in looking at works in the Met, but be aware you'll have to look at many of these works online, or just in the book.

[Stefanie Sage · Rating 4 out of 5]

While theologically the author and I are in very different camps: I am a highly reformed Protestant and he is a devout Catholic, the book has stunning insights historically and the art that is highlighted is worthy of deep consideration. My only wish would be that this book were offered in a larger format; perhaps a coffee table book, so that the reader could more closely examine the highlighted art. Theologically we must agree to disagree, but due to our deep faith and love for Christ, I am certain we will break bread together in eternity.

[Juan Alarcon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great journey through the masterpieces of the Met from a human centered view. Every artwork is a representation, in a way or another, of man's pursue for happiness and man's vision oh himself.
It was very helpful for me to see paintings as mirrors, I don't only see an artwork, I see my reflection on it.

[Emily McReynolds · Rating 3 out of 5]

My in laws loaned me this book because we're planning to go to the Met next month. I appreciated the art history, especially with the older pieces. Once he hit the 1800s I felt that he was picking and choosing a bit more to fit his specific narrative. So I didn't agree with all of his interpretations. But I'm glad I read it and hope to see some of these pieces in person soon!

[Catholic Mom and Daughter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not your average art book! The author takes you on a highly enjoyable and informative trip through the Met as you contemplate man's search for God. Written in a conversational tone, this one keeps your interest and enthusiasm going. Love the pictures, too.

[Sadie Veach · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the Met so much and I love Jesus so much so this was perfect.