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Imagine wandering the echoing halls of a grand Victorian mansion in northeastern Pennsylvania, where whispers of history linger in every ornate corner. The air is filled with the faint aroma of polished mahogany and aged leather, and sunlight filters through stained-glass windows, casting colorful patterns on intricate woodwork.
In such a setting—perhaps the opulent Jackson Mansion in Berwick, built between 1877 and 1879 by Civil War hero Colonel Clarence Gearhart Jackson—stands this captivating bust, a silent witness to generations of stories. Jackson, a resilient industrialist who survived wounds and captivity during the war, poured his dreams into this palatial home with 22 rooms and seven fireplaces, only to pass away tragically at age 38 within its walls.
Or envision it gracing the Yorks Mansion in nearby Bloomsburg, constructed in 1905-1906 for silk mill director Frederick G. Yorks, a beacon of Queen Anne Victorian splendor on the National Register of Historic Places.
Owned by my family for over 60 years, this sculpture has been more than decor—it's a cherished guardian, evoking memories of family gatherings, quiet reflections, and the enduring spirit of those who came before.
Now, as it seeks a new steward, feel the pull of its profound legacy, a rare artifact that bridges the past to your own story, stirring emotions of wonder, reverence, and unbreakable connection.
Detailed Specifications and Features
This commanding antique bust measures an impressive 25 inches tall, 22 inches wide, and 12 inches deep, demanding attention wherever it's displayed. Weighing approximately 120 pounds, it's fashioned from a sandy-textured stone or composite material—likely alabaster or a dense stone blend—that imparts a sense of permanence and gravitas, far surpassing lighter reproductions. I haven't yet weighed it, but, damn, it's heavy. ~120 pounds is my best guess.
The piece shows the authentic marks of time: gentle dust accumulation, minor chips, and faded gold highlights that narrate its over-a-century journey, yet it remains robust with no significant structural issues or alterations.
Likely portraying Mary Magdalene, a symbol of redemption and unwavering faith, the figure is captured in a serene, introspective pose—eyes softly closed, head tilted in quiet contemplation. Her headdress cascades gracefully with braided accents, while a necklace of pearl-like beads adorns her neck, embodying purity and devotion.
The bodice is a masterpiece of relief carving, featuring swirling floral motifs, leafy vines, and blooming patterns that blend Victorian opulence with subtle Art Nouveau flair.
Remnants of gold paint accentuate these details, once shimmering under the gas lamps of grand estates. Circular medallions and pointed arches frame the design, echoing the architectural elegance of Pennsylvania's historic homes like the Crag Mansion in Bloomsburg, perched on a hill overlooking Fishing Creek, or the McClure House, a testament to early American heritage.
A base plaque inscribed with "NOLI ME TANGERE SELENATIO VIOLA"—Latin for "Touch me not," from the Gospel of John where the risen Christ appears to Mary Magdalene—infuses the piece with deep spiritual resonance. This motif, prevalent in Christian art from the Renaissance (think Giovanni Bandini's 16th-century polychrome terracotta busts) to the Victorian era, often depicts her in mourning or ecstasy, with flowing hair and tearful expressions symbolizing transformation.
The enigmatic "SELENATIO VIOLA" might reference symbolic violets for humility or a bespoke inscription, adding mystery that invites personal interpretation.
Another marking, "Gall. Prof. Metal. Hoentz," hints at a professional European foundry origin, possibly from the late 19th century, aligning with the era's fascination with religious iconography in domestic settings.
This bust's style mirrors sculptures like those in marble or terracotta from the period, where artists captured emotional depth through veiled features or intricate drapery, as seen in Giovanni Strazza's mid-19th-century Veiled Virgin or various weeping Magdalene figures in museum collections.
Benefits and Why You Must Own This Now
Possessing this bust transcends mere ownership—it's an invitation to embrace a narrative rich with emotion and heritage. Envision it in your home, a focal point that sparks conversations and introspection, its serene gaze offering solace in turbulent times. In an age of fleeting trends, this artifact stands as a beacon of authenticity, rare in its combination of size, provenance, and thematic depth.
Sourced from a northeastern Pennsylvania Victorian mansion—echoing the grandeur of Berwick's Jackson Mansion, where industrial ambition met architectural splendor, or Bloomsburg's Yorks Mansion, a silk empire's crown jewel—it carries the essence of Gilded Age resilience. Colonel Jackson's story of survival and untimely loss, or the industrial innovation behind Bloomsburg's historic estates, infuses it with layers of human drama, making it ideal for collectors of religious art, Victorian decor, or family heirlooms.
Its rarity ignites urgency: such heavy, inscribed pieces from private estates seldom appear, especially with 60+ years of unbroken family stewardship. Feel the emotional tug—the bust represents hope amid adversity, much like Mary Magdalene's biblical journey from despair to enlightenment, resonating with anyone seeking meaning in their collection. It's a conversation starter, a meditative anchor, and a legacy to pass down, evoking nostalgia for an era when craftsmanship wove faith into everyday beauty. Demand for these treasures grows among enthusiasts who value stories over sterility; don't miss the chance to make it yours, as opportunities like this vanish into private hands. Claim it, and let its quiet power transform your space into a sanctuary of history and heart.
Care and Shipping Notes To honor its heritage, treat this bust with gentle reverence: dust lightly with a soft brush or cloth, steering clear of abrasive cleaners to safeguard the delicate gold accents and patina that enhance its character. Position it in a stable, moderate-humidity area away from direct sun to preserve its timeless allure—professional conservation can address any minor wear if desired.
Given its substantial 120-pound weight, shipping demands expert care. I'll facilitate professional crating and freight service, fully insured for your assurance, with options for local Pennsylvania pickup or coordination via reliable carriers. Rest easy knowing it'll arrive primed to inspire.
Seize this moment—Buy today and welcome this extraordinary heirloom into your world before it's claimed by another. With its unmatched story and presence, it's destined to become the heart of your collection. Act now; let its legacy become yours!
FAQs:
Is it genuine? Its age, patina, and family provenance affirm Victorian origins—consult an appraiser for added certainty.
Material details? Stone composite with gold embellishments, built for endurance.
Restoration advisable? Optional; the natural wear adds authentic charm. What makes it unique? The mansion ties and spiritual inscription set it apart, weaving personal history with artistry.
Shipping worries? Secure freight ensures safe delivery. Embrace this rare gem—your story awaits!
This antique bust, likely depicting Mary Magdalene, emerges as a profound artifact from the Victorian era, blending religious symbolism with the ornate craftsmanship characteristic of late 19th-century sculptures. Originating from a northeastern Pennsylvania Victorian mansion—such as those in Berwick or Bloomsburg—it has remained in one family's possession for over 60 years, embodying a tangible link to Gilded Age opulence and personal heritage. To fully appreciate its significance, we delve into its artistic context, historical provenance, and the emotional layers that make it a coveted collector's piece.
Mary Magdalene busts have a rich tradition in Western art, often portraying her in moments of contemplation or mourning, drawing from biblical narratives like the "Noli me tangere" encounter in the Gospel of John. This phrase, inscribed on the bust's plaque alongside the enigmatic "SELENATIO VIOLA," translates to "Touch me not," capturing the post-resurrection scene where Christ appears to her. Victorian artists frequently revisited such themes, influenced by Renaissance predecessors like Giovanni Bandini's 16th-century polychrome terracotta busts, which featured emotional expressiveness through painted details and flowing hair. Similarly, 19th-century works, such as Giovanni Strazza's marble Veiled Virgin (circa 1850s), employed veiling techniques to evoke mystery and spirituality, though in terracotta or composite forms for accessibility in domestic settings.
This bust's sandy-textured stone composite, adorned with faded gold floral motifs and pearl-like necklace, aligns with polychrome sculptures from the era, like a 6th-century reliquary bust (influencing later revivals) or Victorian bronze depictions with serene, tearful faces. The "Gall. Prof. Metal. Hoentz" marking suggests a professional casting, possibly from European workshops that supplied American estates, enhancing its authenticity without definitive attribution.
_gsrx_vers_1730 (GS 9.9.4 (1730))
_gsrx_vers_1730 (GS 9.9.4 (1730))
_gsrx_vers_1736 (GS 9.9.5 (1736))
| Size | Medium |
|---|---|
| Material | Sandstone |
| Subject | Busts |
Offered by Gosla Antiques & Collectibles, purveyors of antiquities, curiosities and collectible wares. Dispatched from Pennsylvania, United States, with tracking.
Gosla Antiques & Collectibles