The JP Morgan Library’s grand, old-world elegance immediately transports you to turn-of-the-century New York. And at that time, there was almost no one more powerful than financier JP Morgan. He launched U.S. Steel and even served as the unofficial central bank of the U.S. for a time. Though some considered him a national hero, his tight control of banks, corporations and railroads led others to label him one of the original “robber barons.” Morgan was an avid collector of art and books with holdings so vast they were housed at multiple locations in New York and England. Eventually, he decided to consolidate his holdings in a huge library next to his mansion in NYC. Designed by renowned architect Charles McKim and completed in 1906, the Italian Renaissance palazzo-style library holds a staggering collection of illuminated books, historical manuscripts, and old master drawings. The library is rightfully considered McKim’s masterpiece—a majestic, soaring space which is both intimate and warm. It features 30-foot ceilings, three tiers of bronze and walnut bookcases, stained glass, a huge marble fireplace and grand tapestries. Also visit Mr. Morgan’s study, with its red silk damask walls and antique wooden ceiling brought over from Florence. The library is off the typical tourist’s radar. Imagine yourself as Morgan in your private quarters, reveling in the power and wealth at your command.
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The Morgan Library and Museum
The Morgan Library and Museum, a New York City treasure located near both Penn Station and Grand Central Station, was once the private library of financier Pierpont Morgan, one of the preeminent collectors and cultural benefactors in the United States. In addition to their impressive collection of illuminated, literary, and historical manuscripts; early printed books; and old master drawings and prints; the Morgan hosts other wonderful programs such as the current “Drawing Surrealism” exhibition. The venue’s Renzo Piano expansion creates a current feel to this historic landmark. Only blocks from the Morgan Library is the Andaz 5th Avenue, which also has a library space. The Flag Art Foundation has been fortunate to have a piece by one of the painters we work with, Lesley Vance—who exhibited at FLAG this past fall—on display there for the public.
New York's Finest Library
New York has some very exceptional libraries and one of my favorites is The Morgan Library & Museum. The museum began as the private library of John Pierpont Morgan who lived from 1837 to 1913. He was a financier and his collection includes historical manuscripts, printed books and old master drawings among other items. The museum itself was built between 1902 and 1906 and designed by architect Charles McKim. Nowadays, the museum’s collection is even more expansive and there’s also a performance hall, a cafe and restaurant, a shop and a new reading room. Although this museum may seem smaller compared to the MET or the MoMA, there is a lot to see here so plan at least an hour, if not more, to view the exhibits.
Educate yourself at The Morgan Museum
A library and museum that began as a private collection of rare literary and historical manuscripts, early printed books, old master drawings and prints. Open to the public since 1924, it is a stronghold of knowledge. Their current exhibition ‘Gatsby to Garp’ brings together first editions, manuscripts, and letters of the twentieth century’s most celebrated authors.