A Veiled Mystery

The Veiled Virgin: A Masterpiece of Marble

A Veiled Mystery

The Veiled Virgin is an enigmatic marble sculpture that captivates the senses with its ethereal beauty and exquisite craftsmanship. Carved in Rome by the renowned Italian sculptor Giovanni Strazza (1818-1875), this masterpiece depicts the bust of a veiled Virgin, its delicate features shrouded in a translucent veil.

Carrara's Call

The Veiled Virgin is crafted from Carrara marble, a prized material quarried in Tuscany, Italy. This pure white stone has been prized by artists for centuries, including ancient Roman builders and Italian Renaissance masters. Its fine grain and translucency allow for intricate detailing, making it an ideal medium for Strazza's delicate artistry.

A Transatlantic Journey

In 1856, The Veiled Virgin embarked on a transatlantic journey to Newfoundland. According to the journal of Bishop John Thomas Mullock, the statue arrived on December 4th. Its presence in Canada is a testament to the global appeal of Strazza's work and the enduring fascination with this captivating piece of art.

A Sister in the States

The Veiled Virgin is not the only veiled statue by an Italian sculptor. Giuseppe Croff (ca. 1860) created The Veiled Nun, a similar marble masterpiece that is now housed in the prestigious National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.

Immortalizing the Virgin

The Veiled Virgin is more than just a sculpture; it is a timeless tribute to the Virgin Mary, a symbol of purity, humility, and divine grace. Strazza's exquisite craftsmanship immortalizes the Virgin's essence in marble, creating a work of art that continues to inspire and awe generations.