The Getty’s director steps down without explanation and the world wonders. The LA Times Culture Monster blog has a few details:

Michael Brand, who has served four years as the director of the J. Paul Getty Museum, will step down from his role at the end of the month. The news was announced today by James N. Wood, president and chief executive of the J. Paul Getty Trust.

Brand began his tenure in December 2005 with a five-year contract. He will be available to serve as a consultant through the end of the summer, according to the Getty.

Brand is leaving the museum about one year before his contract is up. In an interview, he said the choice to resign was “my decision,” but declined to be more specific.

“I really don’t want to get behind the reasons of my resignation,” he said.

Brand, who turns 52 on Saturday, said he would continue to receive his salary until December, when his contract expires.

Michael Brand, director of the J. Paul Getty Museum, Is Stepping Down (Culture Monster)