The museum’s effect owes much to the magnificent pieces of art that line its walls and hallways. Building on the collection of George Grey Barnard, who accumulated numerous works while living in France before World War I, John D. Rockefeller Jr. financed the construction of the Cloisters, which opened in 1938. Intent on presenting the art in a way that would preserve its original setting, planners designed the galleries to transport visitors through time. Paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and a myriad of other works from the Romanesque through the Gothic periods appear at peace in their new home. Although much of the art portrays religious themes, the museum’s mood suggests tranquility rather than spirituality. An explicable lack of display cases, except those reserved for smaller objects, adds to the natural feel of the museum, producing an atmosphere typical of a country home. The five reconstructed cloisters bolster this effect by offering serene zones for rest and reflection.

Several notable highlights require special attention at the Cloisters. The museum’s star is a series of seven tapestries of South Netherlandish origin titled The Hunt of the Unicorn. Grand in size and exquisitely woven, these masterpieces demand an entire gallery to themselves. Donated by Mr. Rockefeller, the tapestries chronicle a medieval expedition in search of the fabled unicorn. Their elegant details and rich colors make them more than worthy of the crowds that visitors must fight for a good view. Another of the museum’s acclaimed works is Robert Campin’s The Annunciation Triptych. A three-paneled altarpiece intended for private devotion, it depicts the archangel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary that she would be with child. Campin’s use of a contemporary setting for this event makes the painting fascinating to investigate. Mary sits in a house surrounded by towels, candlesticks, and books, with a medieval skyline visible from the window. Vibrant colors leap from the canvas and give the painting a luminary appearance. Normally set in a room designed to match Campin’s 15th century world, The Annunciation Triptych shines amid many other fantastic works.

No visit to the Cloisters can be complete without taking time to enjoy the museum’s natural setting. Within the building’s walls, the cloisters themselves offer a beautiful array of plant life, complete with descriptions of medieval uses for the vegetation. Outside, beautiful Hudson scenes await guests from the so-called ramparts and west terrace. The countryside across the river in New Jersey remains conspicuously bare, thanks to Mr. Rockefeller’s forethought in securing that land to afford an unspoiled vista for posterity. Neighboring Fort Tryon Park offers plenty of shade and more spectacular views of the riverside. Its expanse supplies an ideal location for festive afternoon picnics or long, contemplative walks. This environment adds to the appeal of the Cloisters; it is a relatively small museum, but these intangibles make it a destination worthy of a lengthy visit. Although the Cloisters does not attract the crowds that flock to its big brother on Fifth Avenue, it nevertheless sparkles as one of the city’s cultural gems.

Admission to the Cloisters is free if you show your RU ID card, and you can also bring in a guest for free. Click here for more information about the museum, including hours and directions. If you would like to know more about The Hunt of the Unicorn, you might enjoy this article from The New Yorker magazine.