Museum of Primitive Art facts for kids

Nazca Double Spout Bottle, showing hummingbirds feeding on flowers. This art was once at the Museum of Primitive Art.

A beautiful Feathered Panel from the Wari culture, made with macaw feathers on cotton fabric. It was part of the museum's collection.

The Museum of Primitive Art was a special museum in New York City. It focused on ancient art from different cultures around the world. These cultures included people from Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. The museum displayed art made by early groups of people.

Nelson Rockefeller started the museum in 1954. He was a famous art collector and donated his own collection of what is called Tribal art. This type of art comes from traditional societies. The museum first opened its doors to the public in 1957. It was located right next to where Rockefeller grew up.

Robert Goldwater was the first director of the museum. He helped guide its early years. The museum closed in 1976. Its amazing collection of art then moved to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This meant more people could see these important artworks.

What Was Primitive Art?

Primitive art refers to art created by early societies. These societies often lived before modern industrial times. The art includes sculptures, masks, pottery, and textiles. It often has deep cultural and spiritual meanings.

Nelson Rockefeller's Vision

Nelson Rockefeller had a great passion for art from different cultures. He wanted to create a place where this art could be appreciated. He believed these artworks were just as important as European art. His goal was to share these unique pieces with everyone.

The Museum's Location

The museum was set up in a townhouse at 15 West 54th Street. This was a special spot for Rockefeller. It was right next to his childhood home. The location made it easy for visitors to explore the collection.

The Museum's Journey

The museum was first called "The Museum of Indigenous Art." Indigenous means native or original to a certain place. In 1957, its name changed to "The Museum of Primitive Art." This new name better reflected its wide range of collections.

Robert Goldwater's Leadership

Robert Goldwater was a well-known art historian. He became the museum's first director. He helped shape the museum's early exhibits. Goldwater worked to make the museum a respected place for studying ancient art.

Joining the Met

After about 20 years, the Museum of Primitive Art closed. Its entire collection moved to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Met is one of the largest art museums in the world. This move made the "primitive art" collection available to even more visitors. It also helped create a new department at the Met. This department focuses on the arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas.