<br><br>**Rocking Provenance A Guitar's Journey Through History**<br><br>As a former Rolling Stone, Mick Taylor has a unique perspective on the world of music. Now, he's disputing the ownership of a guitar that once belonged to him – or at least, that's what he claims. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) is contesting his claim, citing lack of evidence in the provenance records.<br><br>**Why Provenance Matters**<br><br>In 1959, Dirk Ziff, a billionaire investor and guitar collector, donated a 1959 Gibson Les Paul to The Met as part of a landmark gift of over 500 fine guitars from American guitar making's golden age. This iconic instrument has a rich history, having been played by two Rolling Stones members – Keith Richards and Mick Taylor.<br><br>**A Starburst Finish A Claim of Identity**<br><br>Taylor claims he recognizes the guitar with its distinctive starburst finish as an instrument he last saw in 1971 during the recording of the album Exile on Main St. at Keith Richards' villa in France. He believes that instruments went missing during this period, allegedly stolen.<br><br>**A Call for Transparency Verification of Provenance**<br><br>Taylor's partner and business manager, Marlies Damming, is urging The Met to make the guitar available for inspection. An independent guitar expert should be able to verify its provenance, one way or the other, she emphasizes.<br><br>**The Guitar's Journey Through History**<br><br>This guitar has had a remarkable journey. It was owned by Keith Richards, who played it during the Rolling Stones' first appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1964, sparking interest in this legendary model. The guitar was also played by guitar legends Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page.<br><br>**Largesse and Legacy The Importance of Provenance**<br><br>This dispute highlights the significance of provenance and the legacy left behind when instruments change hands. As sociologists, we can analyze how this instrument has been imbued with meaning through its association with famous musicians and historical events.<br><br>**Conclusion**<br><br>As The Met continues to open new galleries dedicated to its collection of American guitars, it is essential that they address Taylor's concerns and make the guitar available for inspection. Only then can the true provenance of this iconic instrument be determined, ensuring its legacy is preserved for future generations to appreciate.<br><br>**Implications for Sociologists in 2025**<br><br>1. **Provenance and Legacy** The case of the stolen Gibson Les Paul underscores the importance of documenting an instrument's history and ownership.<br>2. **Largesse** Dirk Ziff's donation of over 500 guitars to The Met demonstrates his commitment to preserving music history.<br>3. **Cultural Significance** As sociologists, we can analyze how this guitar has been imbued with cultural significance through its association with famous musicians and historical events.<br><br>**Keywords** Rolling Stones, Mick Taylor, Keith Richards, Gibson Les Paul, provenance, legacy, largesse, music history, The Met
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