Putting Poetry on a Pedestal:
Unvealing the Restored DANTE ALIGHIERI Monument
on Belle Isle.
The Italian community thus encountered obstacles in their mission to honor Dante, but they persisted.
Raffaello Romanelli, a renowned Italian sculptor, was commissioned to create a second bust of Dante. However, the new bust faced challenges upon arrival in Detroit, as it was considered too large for the intended space in the library. Consequently, it was placed in storage with an uncertain fate.
In 1927, efforts spearheaded by Consul Pietro Cardiello and Vincenzo Giuliano, editor of “La Voce del Popolo” (The Italian Tribune), led to a breakthrough. The City Plan Commission recognized the Dante bust as having cultural and historical significance and agreed to erect it on Belle Isle, Detroit.
The original pedestal, also brought over from Italy, symbolized a bridge between the old world and the new, a fitting foundation for the poet who continues to bridge cultures and centuries.
Despite finally being displayed, the Dante bust faced ongoing challenges, such as environmental wear and the passage of time, which affected its condition. Periodic restoration efforts were necessary to preserve its beauty and integrity. Each restoration was a delicate balance of respecting the original artistry while using modern techniques to ensure longevity.
Today, the Dante Alighieri bust is a tribute to a literary giant and a symbol of perseverance and community pride. Its journey from creation to acceptance, through challenges and restoration, reflects the resilience of Detroit’s Italian community and its unwavering dedication to celebrating its heritage. The bust’s presence serves as a reminder of the enduring power of art to unite and inspire across generations.
