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Library Lion in sculptor Edward Clark Potter's studio in Connecticut, 1910
The famous Library Lions are perhaps the most beloved public sculptures in New York City. As seen in this photograph, they were originally modeled in clay by sculptor Edward Clark Potter, who was known for specializing in animal subjects, then carved by the Piccirilli Brothers. Less than two weeks before the building opened on May 23, 1911, the completed lions were set in front of the library. Two decades later, Mayor Fiorello La Guardia nicknamed the lions Patience and Fortitude -- after the qualities he felt New Yorkers needed to survive the Great Depression, and the same words he used to conclude his radio broadcasts to give strength and solace to his listeners. |