The Art & Artifacts Divsion collects art and artifacts by and about peoples of African heritage globally. Art & Artifacts has a poster collection that has over 4,000 posters including one from the American Negro Theatre's production of the play "Anna Lucasta" which was first produced at the 135th St. Library before transferring to Broadway and touring in Europe. A bust from this collection of the 19th century African-American stage actor Ira Aldridge, who is best known for his roles in Shakespearean plays, is on display in the Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division. Art and Artifacts takes researchers by appointment only and for more information please call (212) 491-2241 or email schomburgart@nypl.org.
