Belle da Costa Greene or Belle Marion Greener was the director of acquistions for J. P. Morgan during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Ms. Greene a graduate of Princeton University was recommended by Mr. Morgan's son for the position of director of art for the Morgan Library. Ms. Greene who is of African American heritage was put in a position of power. She travelled the world buying art treasures and making deals on Mr. Morgan's behalf. Vivacious, intelligent and shrewd describes Ms. Greene ascent to the top of her game. For a black woman to pass as white during this time period was incredible.
Recently, the Morgan Library was renovated and the office where Ms. Greene conducted business is open to the public for the very first time. Viewers will revel in the restore marble and original details of the office that holds some of this country's treasured art.
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