Object details

Accession number

SP2003.024

Primary Creator

Joseph Lindon Smith (Pawtucket, Rhode Island, 1863 - 1950, Dublin, New Hampshire)

Full title

Ceremonial Staff for Teobaldo "Bolgi" Travi

Creation Date

1901-1903

Provenance

Commissioned by Isabella Stewart Gardner from the artist Joseph Lindon Smith (1863-1950), probably between 1901 and 1903. Gift from Isabella Stewart Gardner to Teoboldo "Bolgi" Travi for his use as majordomo of the Museum. Gift from Travi to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum upon his retirement in 1941.

Dimensions

129.5 x 17.8 cm (51 x 7 in.)

Display Media

Lacquered wood, brass, green and yellow silk cord with tassels

Web Commentary

A native of Italy, Teobaldo "Bolgi" Travi (1863-1944) immigrated to Boston and first came to the Museum to work on its construction. Isabella Stewart Gardner was impressed with the care that Bolgi handled the sculptures and architectural elements integrated into the building. Once construction was complete, she hired him to be her "majordomo," the chief supervisor of the museum's staff. The photograph shows Bolgi in his majordomo's uniform, custom designed by the artist Joseph Lindon Smith (1863-1950).

Permanent Gallery Location

Archives

Rights and reproductions

The use of images, text, and all other media found on this website is limited. Please review Rights and Reproductions for details.