American Museum of Natural History

There are several entrances to the museum, but the south side is my favorite, architecturally. All muscular Romanesque style.

It's all about the dioramas. I think they are truly some of the greatest works of art in the city. The care and craftsmanship that went into making them is unmatched. They're also fantastic historical remnants- they haven't changed since my grandpa looked at them decades ago.

You enter this massive, dimly lit room. In the middle, a herd of elephants stomps quietly. In the walls surrounding them, and in the balconies overhead, are the glowing windows to the panoramas.

 
They're truly transporting. You find yourself creating a narrative, imagining yourself in the scene.
 
 

 

 
 

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