Vanderbilt Mantelpiece

Augustus Saint-Gaudens

ca. 1881–83 · Marble, mosaic, oak, and cast iron · The American Wing

This mantelpiece originally dominated the entrance hall of the residence of Cornelius Vanderbilt II on Fifth Avenue at 57th Street (demolished 1925-27). Working for the architect George B. Post, the artist John La Farge (1835-1910) created a lavish decorative program, to which Saint-Gaudens contributed many of the sculptural elements. Two classical caryatids, Amor (Love) and Pax (Peace), support the expansive entablature with bowed heads and upraised arms. The overmantel mosaic depicts a classically dressed woman holding a garland. The Latin phrase of hospitality flanking her head may be translated as “the house at its threshold gives evidence of the master’s good will. Welcome to the guest who arrives; farewell and helpfulness to him who departs.”

Artist

Augustus Saint-Gaudens

Date

ca. 1881–83

Medium

Marble, mosaic, oak, and cast iron

Culture

American

Department

The American Wing

Credit line

Gift of Mrs. Cornelius Vanderbilt II, 1925