Description
This unsigned sculpture was originally commissioned for the altar in the chapel of Schuelke Hall at Concordia University in Seward, Nebraska There is extensive documentation on this piece (see photos below). based on this documentation, we believe this piece was created in 1961. This piece was formerly inventoried as 5-5.
Marxhausen writes, “Many may be bothered by the lack of a face and the sheer simplicity of the figures. Much time and effort was exerted to achieve this simplicity. No attempt was made to reproduce realistic figures of Christ. these statues have no feet to kiss, but those are symbols and reminders of an invitation to turn into Him in times of Trouble… The Christ for Schuelke invites, encircles, gathers, tries to keep together so that not one may go astray. Reminds me of a mother hen with wings outstretched. The color is ruddy, but more delicate. The statues may be used in any building or on any altar, but they were designed specifically for this campus and for Jesse and Schuelke. I enjoyed making them, and I hope they will increase your prayer life while on campus.”
This piece was badly cracked at one time and physically repaired before being donated to St. John. A member of the art faculty at Concordia has retouched the color on the face of the statue to better match the photos below. See photos for details.