Portrait of Pioneering Librarian Belle da Costa Greene

This portrait captures Belle da Costa Greene, a pioneering librarian known for her influential role in the literary and cultural landscape of the early twentieth century. Taken on October 1, 1929, the photograph showcases Greene during a period when women were beginning to make significant strides in professional fields, including librarianship. Greene served as the first female director of the Morgan Library & Museum in New York City, where she not only managed collections but also shaped the institutions literary direction.

Greene was celebrated for her extensive knowledge and expertise in rare books, manuscripts, and art. Her leadership transformed the Morgan Library into a renowned center for scholarship and the arts. This image stands as a testament to her contributions and the evolving role of women in the workforce at that time, illustrating the intersection of gender and professional identity in American history. The portrait not only documents Greenes appearance but also highlights her importance in the field of librarianship and the cultural history of the United States.