In front of the New York Public Library stands two of New York City’s most popular public sculptures: Patience and Fortitude. Modeled by Edward Clark Potter, the world famous lions are made of marble and have endured over the years, despite roughly a century of abuse from pollution and weather.
Because they have become such iconic figures in New York City, they have naturally adopted nicknames over time. First, they were called Leo Astor and Leo Lenox, after the founders of the library. Then, they were called Lady Astor and Lord Lenox. It wasn’t until the 1930s, that the lions officially adopted the names Patience and Fortitude, thanks to Mayor Fiorello.
What was his source of inspiration for these names? Well, patience and fortitude are two qualities he believed New Yorkers needed to possess in order to survive the economic depression. Today, Fortitude perches on the north side of the Library steps, while Patience sits on the south side.
