Park City Library's Triptych Represents More Than History

If you have strolled around the second floor of the Park City Library admiring the art displayed during temporary exhibits, you may have noticed a large, impressive piece on permanent display. 

That piece is called a 'triptych' from Greek origins meaning 'three-fold' which describes the actual construction of this oil painting. It is made up of three separate panels hinged together which allow it to be displayed with the panels closed or open.

Triptych form was common in Christian altar paintings of the Middle Ages and was eventually adopted by other religions including Islam and Buddhism.

According to the small plaque beside the oil painting, it was done in 1968 by R. Hamloul. The title and/or view is Aux Batisserus de l'Hotel de Ville de Bruxelles. The work is dedicated to the builders of the Brussels Town Hall between 1401 and 1454. It was purchased in Europe and later gifted to the library by the late Jim Powell.

Even though some facts about the triptych remain a mystery, Jim Powell will always be known for his patronage to Park City Library and the creation of a sister library in Dharan, Nepal.

Linda Tillson, former Park City Library director saw Jim as being passionate about libraries and reading. “He visited the Park City Library frequently and on more than one occasion remarked that libraries are an essential component of a civilized society and that being able to access knowledge and information is what separates humans from other species.”

Park City Library will always be grateful for Jim's thoughtful gifts. Be sure to head to the second floor of the Park City Library to witness this historical piece of artwork!