| Description |
The tall and visionary explorer, Columbus, gazes calmy into the distance. The bust's deeply chiseled and stern features as well as the emphasis on the shoulders add a note of dignity and pride. The elaborate base with the bow and stern of the ship and the heavy foliate cornice add further distinction. An inscription reads "Christpher Columbus, a great son of Italy. Born 1435 - Died 1506. Discovered America October 12, 1492. This monument is dedicated to his honor by the Italians of Detroit, October 12, 1910." It is signed at the bust's proper right "A. Rivalto."
The bust was donated to the city in 1910 by the Italian community in and around Detroit. The major force behnd the project was Vincenzo Guiliano, editor of the Italian Tribune, who began the initiative in order to commemorate the four hundredth anniversary of the death of Columbus in 1906. Materials and shipping costs amounted to around $ 2,300, but the sculptor, Augusto Rivalta, donated his work. The city paid for underground construction. On the day of the unveiling, October 12, 1910, a time capsule was placed in the pedestal, but was not found when it was moved in November, 1987. The bust and its base were removed from the north end of Washington Boulevard at Grand Circus Park for restoration and moved to the corner of Jefferson Avenue and Randolph Street following the work, which was performed by Venus Bronze Works, Inc. A new plaque was installed to replace the one stolen. Also, a new second plaque was installed on the (northerly) side of the monument. Once again, the Italian community was involved
in these efforts. The bust was rededicated in 1988. Columbus Day activities take place yearly at the base of the statue. As a result of efforts of the Central Business District Foundation (C.B.D.F.), lights were added during the relocation construction work.
Save Outdoor Sculpture survey, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Michigan survey, 1993-1994. |
| Artist |
Augusto Rivalto |
| Dimensions |
H-45 W-45 D-45 inches |
| Dimension notes |
Base dimensions approx. 9.5' x 8' x 8'. |
| Early Date |
1910 |
| Late Date |
1988 |
| Owned |
City of Detroit |
| Home location |
Randolph median at Jefferson Avenue |
| Title |
Columbus Bust |
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