August 3, 2016

Source for Central's entrance gates discovered

Original Chapel Gates in Prato
Central Library's Front Gates



This bureau has recently discovered the original on which Central Library’s beautiful front entrance gates are modeled.  Maso di Bartolomeo, one of the most respected bronze artists in Renaissance Italy, designed the grilles that form the entrance gate to the “Cappella della Cintola” (Chapel of the Virgin’s Girdle, or Belt) in the Cathedral of Prato, Italy.  Master artisans created and installed this grille between 1438 and 1443.  If you look closely, you can see a buckle holding together the belt-like strands that encircle the graceful quatrefoil design. 

When Central Library was renovated (2010-2012), this motif was used on the glass wall of the Carnegie Room and signs on the building's third floor.