A Gilded Age Private Library - Morgan Library & Museum

The Morgan Library & Museum is a treasure trove of cultural and literary history, celebrating the extensive collection amassed by millionaire financier J. Pierpont Morgan. Morgan, an influential banker and art collector in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, recognized the value of preserving important works, leading to a collection that features an astonishing array of rare books, manuscripts, prints, and drawings. His vision laid the groundwork for a library that combines both literary and artistic masterpieces, including profound handwritten works by figures such as Beethoven and Bob Dylan, as well as manuscripts spanning centuries—from the Middle Ages to the literary contributions of Virginia Woolf and Mark Twain. Notably, the collection includes significant volumes like the Gutenberg Bible and remarkable drawings by renowned artists such as Michelangelo and Rembrandt.

The inaugural director, Belle da Costa Greene's leadership not only shaped the library's reputation but also enhanced its mission to inspire and educate through its diverse collections. By expanding the scope of the library's holdings, she positioned it as a vital cultural institution. Greene's choice to pass as white illustrates the societal constraints of her time, yet she navigated these complexities with remarkable skill. Her contributions helped elevate the status of librarianship and broadened access to the treasures that the Morgan Library holds today, leaving an enduring impact on both the institution and the field of library science.

This is what caught my eye; I hope you enjoy!

In 1880, Pierpont Morgan moved his family to this brownstone at the corner of 36th Street and Madison Avenue.

By 1900, Morgan was focused on his growing collections which needed a new home. He commissioned this private library to be built adjacent to his house in 1902. Charles McKim of McKim, Mead & White was the chosen architect.

The Rotunda ceiling

The ceiling in The Library

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The Library entrance into The Rotunda

McKim recruited artist Harry Mowbray to be responsible for the Entrance Rotunda dome ceiling paintings with some simulated marble reliefs and mosaics.

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The Library is the largest of the rooms with walls reaching a height of 30 feet, and are lined floor to ceiling with bookcases made of bronze and inlaid walnut.

A jeweled covered Lindau Gospels on display.

This is one of two entrances to staircases concealed behind bookcases at the corners of the room that provide access to the balconies above.

The marble mantelpiece on the east wall of the Library with a tapestry, The Triumph of Avarice. The tapestry belongs to a series depicting the Seven Deadly Sins, designed by Pieter Coecke van Aelst.

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Harry Siddons Mowbray also developed The Library’s decorative ceiling.

The West Room was Pierpont Morgan’s private study.

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This room reflects Morgan’s own fondness for beautifully crafted objects.

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This vault was designed for Morgan to house some of his most valuable items. The walls are lined with solid steel, and the door has a combination lock.

The portrait over the fireplace is a 51-year-old Pierpont Morgan, commissioned in 1888.

One of the most remarkable features of the room is the antique wooden ceiling. McKim purchased it in Florence and had it reassembled to fit this room.

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Some of the cylinder seals from Ancient western Asia displayed in The North Room.

Other displays in The North Room

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The North Room fireplace with a bust of Bust of Giovanni Boccaccio on the mantle.

The North Room ceiling

Belle da Costa Green

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A glimpse into part of the original brownstone.

What you should know:

• The library tour is self-guided.

• Tickets can be purchased online or in person.

• There are restrooms available.

• Check website for days and hours of operation and if there are any special events.

• You could definitely spend a few hours here.

• There is no parking facilities. On the street or parking lot options only. Be sure to check posted parking regulations signs.

Location: 225 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10016

For more information: The Morgan Library & Museum