Philanthropists Marica and Jan Vilcek Endow Curatorial Position at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Philanthropists Marica F. and Jan T. Vilcek have endowed a new curatorial position in the Department of Arms and Armor at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Art historian John Byck has been appointed as the Marica F. and Jan T. Vilcek Associate Curator.

Marica Vilcek, a cofounder of the Vilcek Foundation, has a long history with The Met. She began her career at the Slovak National Gallery in 1960 and joined The Met in 1965. Her 32-year career at the Museum and her ongoing support have significantly influenced young artists and arts professionals.

John Byck joined The Met in 2015 and has since become an expert in antique firearms and edged weapons. Byck's work includes numerous exhibitions, lectures, and publications which have had a transformative impact on the Arms and Armor Department.

The Vilcek Foundation, established in 2000, promotes the contributions of immigrants to the U.S. and supports the arts and sciences through grants and awards.