My Darling #15407

The Story

A very weathered white marble statue of a woman holding a small string of flowers against the blue Fall sky. The picture title comes from the My Darling enscribed into the base, which is hard to make out.

There have been many statues created in white marble throughout time, but if they are permanently displayed outside, details eventually soften due to modern acid rain and the natural softness of the stone. There is a certain melting quality to that softening that can be seen here. The statue is within the city of Pittsburgh and likely around 100 years old. With Pittsburgh’s industrial history, I’m sure a lot of potent acid rain fell on this piece of memorial art.

Another problem with outdoor sculpture can be the spread of lichen. Regular cleaning can stop it, but many plots don’t have that kind of care as time goes on. Here are some very large lichens in light gray that have extensively covered this angel artwork.

Despite these maintenance problems, this winged angel statue is very well done, beautiful, and very enjoyable to see firsthand.

Location: Allegheny Cemetery, Pittsburgh, PA.  Picture and story © Andrew Dierks