The Castle Hill Griffins, created in 1928 by the renowned American sculptor, Paul Manship, have become Crane Estate property icons for their unique Art Deco interpretation of these mythological beasts. Yet, the dedication plaques are what tell their story:
In affectionate regard for Richard T. Crane, Jr. 3600 old employees of Crane Co. have set these griffins to guard his home on Castle Hill.
The Griffins were gifts from 3600 former employees to Mr. Richard T. Crane, Jr., who served as the beloved president of Crane Company in Chicago from 1914 - 1931.
Paul Manship (1885 - 1966), a prolific and successful artist in his own time, is perhaps best known for his Art Deco Prometheus Fountain (1934) at New York's Rockefeller Center. While the Crane mansion was designed by architect David Adler to resemble a 17th century English country house, Manship's streamlined, modern metal Griffin sculptures date the house to its own time.
The Trustees is fortunate to have these sculptures in its collection, both as works of art and for the Crane legacy they represent.
Product Details:
- Finish: Solid brass, electro-plated with non-tarnishing silver finish, giclee print
- Dimensions: Approx. 1" W x 4.50" L (Packaged in recycled PET plastic sleeve with Castle Hill Griffins history card)
- Custom-Made Bookmark by David Howell & Company, specialist in the design and manufacturing of museum quality gifts. Designs are inspired by museum pieces, adapting original, iconic work to modern, meaningful gifts. Made in USA.