Original Michelangelo castings bring iconic art and spiritual inspiration to a global audience
By Leigh Timmons
For five hundred years, Michelangelo’s majestic “Pietà” has inspired the art world and religious community alike as a perfect representation of spiritual grace and aesthetic ideals. Created for the glory of the church and housed in the Vatican itself, this iconic work attracts countless visitors each year: and now, the bust of the Virgin Mary from this historic masterpiece has been cast once again from a master made from the Vatican’s mold of the original – making it possible for congregations and private owners worldwide to share in Michelangelo’s celebrated vision.
According to Dan Gaddy, son of entrepreneur Lon Gaddy and partner at Michelangelo’s Madonna LLC, the decision to get involved with the Madonna della Pietà project came during a trip to Italy after meeting David Newren, president of the California firm New Renaissance Art. In Gaddy’s words, viewing the Pietà in person was absolutely “awe-inspiring;” and subsequently, the Gaddys felt moved to help share the sculpture’s inspirational impact with the world at large – and to further art’s purpose as a means by which to elevate all of mankind.
Created under the supervision of Vatican artisans, the casting for the “Pietà” bust is entirely faithful to the original, down to the most finite details. Generous donors and art aficionados have already purchased 400 of the 500 limited-edition busts; and according the
, notable buyers include philanthropist James Grau and his wife Elizabeth (sister of celebrity millionaire Donald Trump), who together donated a black Madonna bust to Our Lady of Victory church in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of New York City. The spectacular Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. is also home to one of the sculptures; and here at the
, we are proud to offer a bronze version of the timeless icon for display and sale to the greater San Diego community.
World-class fine art at a Rancho Santa Fe institution
The Madonna della Pietà is a rare and wonderful work of classical art at its best; and at Timmons Galleries, we are privileged to exhibit this testament to Michelangelo’s timeless talent and passion. Art enthusiasts, patrons, collectors, religious groups and casual observers are all invited to visit the gallery and witness the Madonna della Pietà for themselves. Timmons Galleries is located in the Rancho Santa Fe Village: for hours, events and exhibit information, visit us online at
.
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