Images(7)

Cross

Object number2011.65.42

Artist Virgil David Cantini (Italian, 1919 - 2009)

Date1945-2009

Mediumvarious metals; wood; plastic

Credit LineGift of Estate of Virgil Cantini

DescriptionWooden cross with red, white, and blue enamel: obverse, trefoil-like pattern, and the Paschal Lamb in center; reverse, image of the Holy Spirit as a dove with nine red flames set around it. Enamel pieces are held to wood with small metal brackets and nails. At base of cross is a clear plastic cube: each side has a circular computer chip with brass symbols; front: trefoil-like image; right: open book; back: square(?); left: key. Attached to a wooden base that widens at bottom.Dimensions28.625 x 14.25 x 6 in. (72.7 x 36.2 x 15.2 cm)
SignedArtist signature carved, with ink into front bottom of cross "V. Cantini".
Inscriptions

MarksSmall metal plate attached to reverse side's enamel has text "CANTINI".
Historical NotesEnameled cross by Virgil Cantini. Cantini’s artwork was often inspired by his devout Catholic faith. Cantini’s home on Craig Street often caught the eye of passersby with its bright metal and glass entryway and decorative gating around the roof porch, both designed by Cantini. Cantini and his wife, Lucille Kleber, added a gallery space on to the front of their home to display their artwork and a studio on the second floor. In addition to the studio at the Craig Street house, Cantini worked out of a larger studio on Winthrop Street, housed in a 19th century firehouse.

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