The Morgan Library

One of the world’s greatest treasuries of artistic, literary, musical and historical works, The Morgan Library in New York began in the 1890s as the private collection of the American financier after whom it was named. Morgan found inspiration in the European model of a gentleman’s library, acquiring medieval and Renaissance illuminated manuscripts, printed books, fine bindings and Old Master drawings. Morgan also had an interest in the works of American authors and historical figures. This publication presents the most significant examples of the library’s holdings of paintings and art objects, manuscripts, printed books, children’s books, and drawings and prints. Seven chapters cover each of the main collecting areas, with key works illustrated in colour and described with captions and commentaries. Each chapter opens with an introductory text, which assesses each of the library’s collections within their wider art historical context. The text by the Senior Curators of The Morgan Library is accompanied by a specially commissioned introduction by Jean Strouse, a leading New York author.