Project Details
In January 2017, the Society of the Sacred Heart began the process of commissioning a sculpture of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne to adorn the Jubilee Prayer Garden at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis. As the Society’s first missionary sister, St. Philippine came to Missouri from France and founded the first free school west of the Mississippi. The sculpture was created as part of the bicentennial celebration of this event. After reviewing multiple artist’s proposals, the Society ultimately selected Inspired Artisans to bring their interpretation of St. Philippine to life.
Over a period of 15 months we collaborated diligently with members of the Bicentennial Committee to create an authentic representation of the subject. In order to accurately portray even the smallest detail, we studied historical photos and received direction from the Sisters regarding things such as the proper fold and length of her veil and the size of her cross. The St. Philippine sculpture is seated on a bench in an accessible and inviting manor in order to encourage people to take a moment and sit with her. As the theme of the bicentennial was “Crossing Frontiers”, it seemed fitting to depict St. Philippine as she is often seen with a map on her lap representing her dream of traveling to the New World. The life sized St. Rose Philippine Duchesne bronze sculpture was blessed on June 29, 2018 in a ceremony presided over by The Most Reverend Robert J. Carlson, Archbishop of St. Louis.
A miniature sculpture was also created in order to help the Society with their fundraising. You can learn more about it here.
4431 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108
Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis in St. Louis, MO
- St. Rose Philippine Duchesne
- St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Miniature Statue