Writers Are Reaching for Our Thorns; the Thorns Which Define Our Entire Being

​​Award-winning author Min Jin Lee brings a fresh perspective to an ancient image of a boy pulling a thorn from his foot—Spinario—rendered exquisitely by the artist Antico (also known as Pier Jacopo Alari Bonacolsi). Lee’s reflections on the daily struggle of being an artist is honest and moving, and invites a close look at and careful consideration of the Spinario itself. The Spotlight series features new perspectives on a single work from The Met collection each month. Familiar and celebrated works serve as the focal point for dialogue—posing questions, building understanding, and conveying how the presence of the work in the Museum has altered, limited, or enhanced the work’s interpretation. The series explores different ways of knowing, and relates to themes beyond art and museums through the expertise and personal experience of invited guests. Explore more of Spotlight: Subscribe for new content from The Met: