Jan Simane

Dr. Jan Simane serves as the Head of the Library at the Kunsthistorisches Institut in Florenz (Max Planck Society), a leading institution for art-historical research. Born on March 9, 1959, he holds a Ph.D. in art history, classical archaeology, and philosophy from the University of Heidelberg (1991). His career includes roles as a research associate at the Hessisches Landesmuseum in Darmstadt (1991–1994) and training in scientific librarianship (1994–1995). Since 1996, he has led the institute’s renowned library, which supports global researchers.

His research focuses on Netherlandish and Italian drawings, early-modern urban imagery, and the intersection of art and music. He has contributed to projects like Il Progetto EUPLOOS and oversees library initiatives. Professional memberships include leadership roles in IFLA’s Art Libraries Section and OCLC’s EMEA Regional Council.