Monday, December 2, 2024

Putting a Name to the Face

 

"What's his name?"

This past summer when we replaced all of the ceramic tile in our home for Luxury Vinyl Tile, one of the more tedious tasks was to empty the china cabinet of all the pretties so the furniture could be moved. This guy was on one of the glass shelves, toward the back, up kinda high, where I don't see him often. A playful thought immediately caused me to make a mental note to do something fun with him at Christmastime. 

But when I pulled him out of that cabinet last week, I decided I wanted to know who he is. Gary had no recollection of the fellow; we're thinking maybe Edith acquired him while visiting a museum during their years of living in the Washington D.C. area. So I put out this query on my Facebook page:


Here are the responses I've had so far:

Leah: Worth $450. 

ENNIO FURIESI Late 20th Century Italian Bust of David After Michelangelo, Vtg.


Grace: That is my guess too.


Linda: pretty sure it’s Michelangelo. My knowledge comes from all the useless art history classes, LOLO. Hope that made you smile.


George: Here is one used for $25. Per google a vintage bust of David. (he included a picture with this)


Julian: David 


Suzan: I see you already have the answer.


MaryAnn: … wine bottle and head of David. I have one too. It’s at least 55 years old.



Some distinguishing features about this piece: 

appears to a be a healthy, slim young man

curly hair

sort of a ponytail at the nape of the neck

a wash cloth draped over his left shoulder

maybe the sculptor caught him exiting the shower

With all that said (and thanks to all who commented) the conclusion I'm reaching is that this is Michelangelo's version of Old Testament King David.

As is true of many of you, I am profoundly grateful for David's songs and prayers recorded in Scripture, because his words help me to articulate the deep things in my heart, especially when I'm upset. 

I do wonder, and hope, that this will be taken in the attitude of fun because Christmas is a season of celebration, joy, gifts, stories, games, good food, and laughter. How this small Santa's hat came into my collection of things, I have long since forgotten. But when I saw the person in the china cabinet, this is what came to mind:


So there you have it. Along with the serious we have fun. He is a participant in our holiday decor this month. In another post I'll tour you through our home to see what else we've pulled out to celebrate.


Until next time, grace, peace, and joy.


6 comments:

Pamela M. Steiner said...

How amazing to have "King David" staying at your house for the holidays! Perhaps he is there to supervise the birthday of his Lord and King, Jesus, Who is actually of his own earthly lineage, and yet He is David's true Father. And since Santa Claus is the giver of many gifts at Christmas, perhaps it is fitting for David to wear the Santa hat as he shares the best gift of all, the Baby Jesus, born in David's own city of Bethlehem! It's all rather amazing, isn't it? I'm so happy you discovered him! He deserves to be seen and enjoyed!

Terri D said...

I love that King David is sporting the hat for the holidays!! I'm sure he would have had fun with it!! Fun, fun, fun!! xo

Mari said...

I think it's perfect! Glad you found out who he is, and now he is spreading extra joy in your home!

Robin in Virginia said...

This made me smile, Barbara! What fun!

Martha Jane Orlando said...

This is so whimsical and downright delightful, Barbara! Yes, may we rejoice and frolic like little lambs as our Shepherd comes once again. Blessings!

ellen b. said...

Hooray for facebook friends for coming up with some answers for you. Enjoy the merriment and mirth of the season!

Putting a Name to the Face

  "What's his name?" This past summer when we replaced all of the ceramic tile in our home for Luxury Vinyl Tile, one of the m...