Did you know that there is fascinating history behind the Grand Central Terminal ceiling. This iconic ceiling, adorned with a stunning mural, is a true masterpiece of artwork.
We will dig into the rich history, talented artists, and unique design that make this mural on the ceiling a beloved landmark of Grand Central Terminal.
History of the Grand Central Terminal Ceiling Mural
The Grand Central Terminal was build by the famous Vanderbilt family. Originally called the Grand Central Depot, it quickly reached capacity in the 1890s and was reconstructed as Grand Central Station.
At the main concourse, a breathtaking mural of the skies was painted on the vaulted ceiling. The New York Times praised its “effect of illimitable space,” capturing the imagination of all who beheld it.
Countless generations have stared up at the Grand Central Terminal ceiling and marveled at the mural that depicts the heavens.
Here are some interesting facts about the famous Grand Central Terminal celestial mural.
Interesting Facts about the Grand Central Terminal Ceiling Mural
1. Based on Johann Bayer’s 1603 star atlas Uranometrias
The design of the Grand Central Terminal ceiling was heavily influenced by Johann Bayer’s 1603 star atlas Uranometrias.
The artists and astronomers involved in the project drew inspiration from Bayer’s intricate engravings of constellations and incorporated them into the mural. This connection to a renowned celestial atlas adds to the historical and artistic significance of the ceiling.
2. The Work of 5 Men: Whitney Warren, Paul Helleu, J. Monroe Hewlett, Charles Basing & Dr. Harold Jacoby
The Grand Central Terminal ceiling stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of five talented individuals.
Led by architect Whitney Warren, French artist Paul Helleu, muralist J. Monroe Hewlett, and painter Charles Basing from the Hewlett-Basing Studio contributed their artistic expertise to the design and execution of the stunning mural.
Additionally, astronomer Dr. Harold Jacoby, from Columbia University, played a crucial role in the project, drawing inspiration from Johann Bayer’s influential 1603 star atlas Uranometrias.
Together, these five individuals created a captivating representation of the celestial world on the iconic ceiling of Grand Central Terminal.
3. Design of the Ceiling Mural is Backwards
Soon after the Terminal opened, an astute commuter noticed that the design of the Grand Central Terminal ceiling is actually backwards.
The west is represented as east, and vice versa.
This discrepancy caused some embarrassment for the New York Central Railroad, as they had intended for school children to study the ceiling’s representation of the heavens.
The reversal in orientation occurred during the projection of the original diagram onto the ceiling for painting, resulting in a design that differs from traditional depictions of constellations in celestial atlases.
However, there is debate about whether the reversal was a deliberate decision. This is something that we will probably never know for sure.
4. The Original Mural was Covered Up and What is Visible is a New One
But did you know that the current mural is not the original?
After just 11 years since its initial creation, the original mural on the Grand Central Terminal ceiling had suffered significant deterioration.
Leakage from a faulty roof and the presence of mold had invaded the vibrant blue background, resulting in patches of white, black, and green, while the colors had faded.
In 1945, during a restoration project, the decision was made to cover the original mural with sheets of cement-and-asbestos board and a new mural was painted on the boards.
Today, the outlines of these restoration boards are still visible on the ceiling, serving as a visible reminder of the extensive restoration efforts.
Uncertainty remains regarding the extent to which the original mural still exists beneath the boards. Unfortunately, removing the boards is not advisable due to the presence of asbestos, making it challenging to determine the fate of the original celestial artwork.
5. A Second Triangle was Added during the 1945 Restoration
During the restoration of the Grand Central Terminal ceiling in 1945, the decision was taken to keep the “mistake” of the backwards orientation of the mural.
What’s more, an intriguing addition was made to the mural.
A second triangle, known as Triangulum Minus or “The Lesser Triangle,” was included in the mural.
This constellation, which had been featured in some celestial atlases in the past but was not part of Johann Bayer’s original 1603 star atlas.
It now gracefully occupies a place above the head of Aries. The reason behind this addition is still a mystery, but it certainly adds an element of intrigue and fascination to the artwork.
Triangulum Minus, with its placement in the Grand Central Terminal ceiling, serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of art and the willingness to adapt and incorporate new ideas.
Although it was not part of the original vision for the mural, the addition of this second triangle has become an integral part of the ceiling’s narrative.
As commuters gaze upward, they are treated to a celestial display that captures both the historical and artistic essence of the terminal.
We hope that you’ve enjoyed these interesting facts about the Grand Central Terminal celestial mural at the main concourse.
If you do visit Grand Central Station, look upwards and appreciate the details of the work above your heads.
If you enjoyed this story, you may also enjoy exploring another part of Grand Central Terminal, the Whispering Gallery, or paying a visit to the train station’s Grand Central Market where you can find gourmet food items for sale.
You may also enjoy reading about the Museum of Broadway in New York City.
