The Morgan Library & Museum Celebrates a Century of Art and Literature
Last night, the historic Morgan Library & Museum in Midtown Manhattan was filled with art patrons and bibliophiles alike, as they gathered to celebrate the institution’s centennial anniversary. The grand library, originally built by J.P. Morgan over a century ago, was transformed into a glamorous venue for the evening’s festivities.
Guests dressed in their finest attire sipped on martinis and enjoyed classical covers of popular songs performed by a violinist. Hors d’oeuvres trays filled with decadent treats like crescent duck and caviar were passed around the room, while rare editions of works by Rousseau and Voltaire adorned the shelves.
Notable attendees included architect Peter Marino, art dealer Vito Schnabel, and artist Walton Ford. Music icon Patti Smith and her daughter, Jesse Paris Smith, took a moment to explore the exhibit featuring the works of Beatrix Potter, creator of beloved characters like Peter Rabbit.
The evening continued with a lavish dinner in Gilbert Court, a modern pavilion designed by Renzo Piano. A generous $10 million gift from heiress Katharine Rayner was announced, further supporting the Morgan’s mission to preserve and showcase art and literature.
Director Colin B. Bailey and opera soprano Latonia Moore took the stage, followed by a moving performance from Patti Smith, who read a poem by Emily Dickinson and sang one of her own songs accompanied by her daughter on the piano.
As the night came to a close, guests gathered in the grand library for an after-party, complete with a DJ spinning dance hits and a stunning ornamental cake resembling rare book bindings. Patti Smith led the crowd in a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday” to the Morgan Library, marking a century of cultural significance and artistic excellence.
The Morgan Library & Museum’s centennial celebration was a night to remember, honoring the legacy of J.P. Morgan and his vision of sharing art and literature with the world.
