In a twist of fate, a Texas woman unknowingly purchased a priceless ancient Roman artifact at a local Goodwill store. The statue, which was bought for just $34.99, turned out to be a significant piece of history dating back to the first century BC or AD. The discovery has since captured global attention, bringing together art history, World War II, and even a bit of thrift store sleuthing.
A Priceless Find at a Thrift Store
In 2018, Laura Young was out shopping at a Goodwill store in Austin, Texas, on the hunt for items to resell. While browsing, she stumbled upon a weathered bust that caught her eye. Little did she know, the sculpture she had just purchased for under $35 was a Roman bust that had been lost for decades. It wasn’t until years later that she discovered its extraordinary backstory.
Tracing the Bust’s Origins
The bust had once been part of a full-scale model of a Pompeii-style house located in Aschaffenburg, Germany, built by Ludwig I of Bavaria. This model, known as the Pompejanum, was severely damaged during World War II, and the bust was believed to have disappeared in the chaos following the bombing. The U.S. military occupied the area after the war, and it is thought that an American soldier took the bust and brought it back to the States, where it remained for many years.
A Curious Buyer
After purchasing the bust, Young was struck by how worn and ancient the piece looked. Intrigued by its age and craftsmanship, she began her own investigation into its origin. Her quest led her to reach out to experts in art history and the classics department at the University of Texas at Austin. She also contacted auction houses across the U.S. for their insights. Eventually, her inquiries caught the attention of Jörg Deterling, a consultant with Sotheby’s, who recognized the bust and connected Young with German authorities.
An Unexpected Journey of Discovery
Once the bust’s true identity was confirmed, Young experienced a mixture of excitement and bittersweet emotions. Although she couldn’t keep or sell the artifact, she was proud to have been part of its long and complex history. “There were a few months of intense excitement after that, but it was bittersweet since I knew I couldn’t keep or sell the bust,” Young shared. “Either way, I’m glad I got to be a small part of its journey, and he looked great in the house while I had him.”
A Piece of History in San Antonio
The ancient Roman bust is now on display at the San Antonio Museum of Art, where it will remain until May 2023. After that, it will be returned to its rightful home in Germany, under the care of the Bavarian Administration of State-Owned Palaces. The museum has celebrated the piece’s return, calling it a fascinating story that combines art, history, and international diplomacy.
A Remarkable Story of Art, History, and Discovery
Emily Ballew Neff, the Kelso Director at the San Antonio Museum of Art, expressed her appreciation for the unusual journey of the bust. “It’s a great story whose plot includes World War II-era international diplomacy, ancient Mediterranean art, thrift shop sleuthing, and the thoughtful stewardship of those who care for and preserve the arts,” Neff explained.
Conclusion
This remarkable discovery highlights the intriguing world of art and antiquities, where even a simple visit to a thrift store can lead to uncovering pieces of history. The journey of the Roman bust is a testament to the importance of curiosity, persistence, and the invaluable contributions of both individuals and institutions in preserving the past for future generations.
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