Reflected glory

Abstract

The lighting technique employed in the renovated Arms and Arms Hall at New York City's Metropolitan Museum of Art focus on the detailed visibility of the displays. The displayed objects, mostly metals, needed an illumination that would avoid the usual glare and clutter. Instead of direct accent lighting, the surrounding luminous architectural surfaces provided the appropriate light. The renovation scheme also included the restoration of the main hall and its chandeliers. Night viewing presented yet another challenge as existing lights proved inadequate. The installment of low-voltage lamps which blended with the ceiling architecture provided the needed accent to the displays.