Episode #100: Belle Da Costa Greene: The Untold Story of J.P. Morgan’s Personal
As the Librarian of Gilded Age financier J.P. Morgan‘s extraordinary personal collection of rare books, manuscripts, and historical objects, Belle Da Costa Greene was one of the most visible and formidable players in the art world of the early 20th century. With her deep expertise and drive, she sourced precious objects from major galleries and at auction in New York and throughout Europe.
As Belle competed regularly against other major collectors in this male dominated world and was covered regularly by the press, much of her own personal story remained unknown or the subject of speculation.
Belle was born into an affluent African-American family in Washington DC but upon coming North with her mother, she passed for white. With new research and curatorial insight, even more is now known about this exceptional woman and her role in creating one of the world’s most important libraries and museum collections. Carl is joined by Morgan Library and Museum curator Philp Palmer to discuss and delve into the world and life of Belle Da Costa Greene.
Carl is joined by special guest:
Philp Palmer, Robert H. Taylor Curator and Department Head at the Morgan Library and Museum
LISTEN NOW: Belle Da Costa Greene: The Untold Story of J.P. Morgan’s Personal
Related Podcast:
Black Gotham: Origins of Gilded Age New York’s Black Elite