The Getty Museum

This site has a wealth of information and images from probably the greatest private collection of art in the world. The site runs well, with images and search results appearing quickly. Given its sheer scale and complexity, it could take you a while to get to grips with the full potential of the site.

Following the links into the Explore Art section produces a well-designed page outlining three search options. Browsers can search for the works of a particular artist, search by theme or subject, or view the works by department. Although the artist search feature would be very useful for anyone interested in seeing the works of a particular artist, you should choose one of the themed video tours to get a more spontaneous view of the collections. This wonderfully mimics the experience of strolling through the gallery and the sensation of reacting spontaneously to some of the world's finest pieces.

In addition to the objects, these tours provide a useful glossary and encyclopaedia of the subject. The mythology section, for example, contains an account of the development of various myths with depictions of them from Ancient Greek Vases; highlight any of the words and an explanation will instantly appear. Even the numerous characters from the Iliad become comprehensible through this approach.

The event calendar has a useful filter function so that you can elect to view only the lectures and tours connected with a specific area. Given the plethora of lectures, seminars and study days, this allows users to get a sensible idea of the variety and number of activities arranged by the Getty Museum.

The online glossary and the range of artists covered make this a useful site for anyone with a serious interest in fine art.