James Loeb (1867 – 1933), the son of a German - Jewish banker in New York, followed his artistic and art historical inclinations and used his tremendous financial wealth for the purpose of cultural and social philanthropism. This publication examines the patron’s life and work and outlines his scholarly achievements.

Classical scholar, art collector, and philanthropist – James Loeb is one of the impressive personal ities of the twentieth century. Coming from a well - off family, he lived for his artistic interests and owned an outstanding collection of Greek, Etruscan, and Roman artworks, which nowadays is kept in the State Collection of Antiquities in Munich. He is th e founder of the Loeb Classical Library and provided extensive support for educational and social institutions. In this publication, renowned German and American authors for the first time take a comprehensive look at the life and work of the collector and patron who was active in Munich and Murnau.