Metropolitan Museum of Art Responds to Claim that Former Rolling Stones Musician Mick Taylor’s Guitar Was Stolen

The Metropolitan Museum of Art has recently issued a response to claims made by former Rolling Stones guitarist Mick Taylor regarding the alleged theft of a significant guitar that was part of an exhibition back in 2019. The museum firmly stated that the guitar in question has a well-documented history of ownership, contradicting Taylor’s assertions. The iconic 1959 Gibson Les Paul guitar was famously played by Keith Richards during the band’s debut performance on ‘The Ed Sullivan Show’ in 1964.

However, Mick Taylor, now 76 years old, has raised concerns about the ownership of this cherished guitar, stating that he last saw it in 1971 while recording with the Rolling Stones in Richards’ villa in the South of France. Known as the “Keithburst,” in honour of its legendary previous owner, the guitar was believed to have been among several instruments stolen by burglars during that time. Despite more than 50 years passing since its disappearance, the guitar has resurfaced, leading to a dispute between Taylor and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, who deny his ownership claims.

The museum’s spokesperson, Ann Bailis, informed PEOPLE through a statement that the guitar was donated to the institution by renowned guitar collector Dirk Ziff in 2019. Ziff’s donation included over 500 guitars, highlighting the apex of American guitar craftsmanship from a bygone era, for the museum’s exhibition titled ‘Play it Loud: Instruments of Rock & Roll’. The Met described these guitars as epitomes of artistry and expression, showcasing their visual and cultural significance.

Marlies Damming, Taylor’s business manager and partner, highlighted distinctive features of the guitar that align with Taylor’s claims of ownership. While referencing numerous photographs of Taylor playing the Les Paul, Damming emphasised unique characteristics such as starburst patterns and specific flaming that are akin to a fingerprint. Despite these assertions, the museum maintains that the guitar’s provenance is well-documented and legally belongs to them.

According to reports, Mick Taylor purportedly received the guitar from Keith Richards in 1967, following the tragic demise of Brian Jones and Taylor’s subsequent induction into the Rolling Stones. Richards originally played this iconic instrument during the band’s groundbreaking appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, catalysing immense interest in this particular guitar model. The guitar changed hands over the years, passing through various owners before ultimately ending up in the possession of collector Dirk Ziff.

The guitar’s journey from Richards to Taylor and its subsequent ownership history underscore a complex tapestry of rock ‘n’ roll lore and musical heritage. This dispute between Mick Taylor and the Metropolitan Museum of Art raises questions about provenance, authenticity, and the intricate legacies interwoven with iconic musical instruments. As the debate unfolds, the rightful ownership of this historic guitar continues to spark interest and intrigue among fans, collectors, and music enthusiasts worldwide.

In a realm where music intertwines with art, history, and personal connection, the saga of the 1959 Gibson Les Paul guitar exemplifies the profound significance attached to instruments that have soundtracked pivotal moments in music history. Whether resolving this ownership dispute or preserving the guitar’s storied past, the essence of rock ‘n’ roll’s cultural heritage remains encapsulated within the strings and body of this iconic instrument.