With lavish masonry work and notable murals by well-known artists, Boston Public Library is an example of Beaux-Arts Renaissance architecture. The gorgeous architectural elements were planned by architect Charles McKim.
Beaux-Arts refers to the American renaissance period from 1890 to 1920 which incorporated French and Italian renaissance and neoclassical revivals. Renaissance style consists of heavy ornamentation, sculptural decoration, and large-scale compositions.
Bates Hall is a reading room of grand stature. The lavish classical style helped secure the library’s place among National Historic Landmarks. The reading room has fifteen arched and grilled windows. The ceiling soars 50 feet high in barrel vault style, lending to the semi-cylindrical appearance. The room is 218 feet long and 42.5 feet wide.
Boston Public Library describes itself as being the first free publicly supported large municipal library in the world and, amazingly, the first to allow people to take books out on loan. The library’s collection is significant with 23 million items which includes rare books, maps, and musical scores.
The entrance of the McKim building at Dartmouth Street has a luxurious marble staircase, several large murals, and two lion statues leading to the second floor.
At the center of the library is a courtyard where patrons can inhale fresh air and sit by a fountain. Looking up, one can see nearby skyscrapers. The arches, columns, and balustraded sill add a dramatic touch.
The McKim building at Boston Public Library is worth a stop to view extravagant rooms, skillful masonry, and decadent murals by artist John Singer Sargent. The Beaux-Arts architecture is grandiose in scale and detail. If you find yourself shopping on Newbury Street, walk over to Copley Square and take retreat in the courtyard for a quiet moment.
Travels With Alison 